The verse 2 Corinthians 4:8 says, “We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair.” This verse comes in the context of Paul describing the hardships he and other believers face in ministry. Even though they face troubles and difficulties, they are not defeated or in despair.
To be “perplexed” means to be confused, puzzled, or unsure about what to do next. It conveys the idea of being at a loss mentally and emotionally. Life often presents us with circumstances that we do not understand or know how to handle. We feel perplexed when difficulties come our way and we do not know why God is allowing them or how to respond.
Even though believers may be perplexed at times, they are not driven to despair. The word “despair” indicates complete loss of hope. But even in their confusion and uncertainty, Christians have hope in God. They trust that God is still in control and has a purpose, even if they cannot see it clearly in the moment.
Some examples of perplexing situations that could potentially lead to despair include:
- A sudden illness or tragic accident
- The death of a loved one
- A financial hardship or job loss
- A natural disaster
- Conflict in a relationship
- Failure to achieve an important goal
In moments like these, believers may feel baffled, lost, and unclear about God’s plan. However, their faith in God’s sovereignty and goodness keeps them from spiraling into complete hopelessness. Their trust in God’s promises sustains them.
So what are some ways Christians can avoid falling into despair when they feel perplexed? How can they stay hopeful in confusing times? Here are a few key principles:
1. Remember God’s past faithfulness.
In perplexing times, we can reflect on times in the past when God has come through for us. The Psalms are full of reminders of God’s steadfast love and mercy. Psalm 77:11 says, “I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your wonders of old.” God has proven His faithfulness over and over, which gives us confidence that He will remain faithful.
2. Cry out to God in prayer.
The natural response when we feel perplexed should be to call out to God in prayer. The Psalms are full of raw, honest prayers during times of trouble and uncertainty. We can follow the example of the psalmists by pouring out our confusion, hurt, and requests to God. He invites us to cast our cares on Him when we feel burdened (1 Peter 5:7).
3. Cling to God’s promises.
Even when we do not understand our circumstances, we can find hope in Scripture’s promises. Promises like:
- “We know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.” (Romans 8:28)
- “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” (Psalm 46:1)
- “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” (Isaiah 41:10)
These promises give us stability when everything feels shaky. God’s Word stands forever, even when our feelings waver. We can trust His purposes and plans.
4. Seek wise counsel.
Talking with spiritually mature believers can help give us perspective when perplexed. Wise friends can encourage us with Scripture and godly advice. “Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.” (Proverbs 11:14). God often provides direction through the body of Christ.
5. Wait patiently on God.
We may have to wait on God’s timing to understand certain perplexities. But waiting does not mean inactivity. As we wait, we can continue to pray, give thanks, serve others, and do the next right thing in front of us. “Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord!” (Psalm 27:14). God remains at work even when we cannot yet see the full picture.
6. Focus on what you know to be true.
In confusing times we can become consumed with the unknown. But we must remember to focus on what we do know. We know God loves us. We know He is good, powerful, and faithful. We know He promises to work all things for good. We know He has an eternal perspective that we lack. By God’s grace, we can walk in the light of His truth and promises, even when perplexed.
Our hope does not come from perfect understanding, but from knowing and trusting the God who understands all things. As Christians, we can be at peace even when perplexed, because we know God holds us securely in His hands. Our security is in Him.
This does not mean it is wrong to have questions or even to lament during trials. The point is not to deny our feelings and perplexities. But we refuse to be sucked down into despair, through the power of the Holy Spirit. By God’s strength, we press forward in hope.
“So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day. For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal.” (2 Corinthians 4:16-18)
7. Consider it an opportunity to grow.
God can use perplexing times and trials to build our maturity and Christlike character. As we lean into Him through the struggle, our faith is refined. We gain greater wisdom and insight to offer others who face similar troubles. What we mean for harm, God means for good.
“Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.” (James 1:2-4)
“Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope.” (Romans 5:3-4)
While perplexing trials are never fun, we can trust that God will use them for our growth if we keep our eyes fixed on Him. Our confidence remains in His sovereign plan and purpose.
8. Rest in God’s sovereignty.
At the end of the day, Christians can avoid despair amidst confusion because we know God is on the throne. He rules over everything, even when circumstances feel out of control. Nothing takes Him by surprise or happens outside His purposes.
We may not be able to make sense of our trials or circumstances. But we can rest, knowing the One with infinite understanding holds our lives securely in His hands. He promises to work even our most painful trials for our eternal good and His glory. With this perspective, we have unshakable hope.
“And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.” (Romans 8:28)
“In him we have obtained an inheritance, having been predestined according to the purpose of him who works all things according to the counsel of his will.” (Ephesians 1:11)
9. Keep an eternal perspective.
Our perplexities and trials are light and momentary compared to the coming glory in eternity with Jesus (2 Corinthians 4:17). Any suffering we endure on earth is brief and insignificant compared to the joy of forever with Christ. Keeping an eternal perspective helps us walk through perplexing days with hope and patience.
“For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us.” (Romans 8:18)
Hardships on earth are temporary, but we look forward to eternal life in a perfectly restored creation. What awaits us far outweighs our momentary troubles. Clinging to this eternally-focused mindset helps prevent us from sinking into despair.
10. Rely on the Holy Spirit.
On our own we do not have the power to withstand despair when perplexed. But God gives believers His Holy Spirit who comforts, empowers, and sustains us. He produces hope and perseverance within us.
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.” (Romans 15:13)
By relying on the Spirit’s help and strength, we can walk through great trials and confusion with courage and trust in God’s plan.
In summary, Christians can be perplexed yet not despairing because of God’s faithfulness, His true promises, the counsel of His people, His heart to mature us, and His sovereign plan that nothing takes Him by surprise. We can have hope and patience in difficulties and confusion because of the gift of the Holy Spirit and the coming glory of eternity with Jesus. Though perplexed, we are not in despair, for we know and trust the God who understands all.