Intense trials can tempt believers to question God’s love, presence, and faithfulness. Dr. Michael Youssef explains how Satan uses suffering to weaken our confidence—and why we must keep trusting God’s promises even when we cannot yet see His answer.
Paul was so concerned for the suffering believers in Thessalonica that he sent Timothy to strengthen and encourage them. He knew that trials can become fertile ground for Satan’s lies.
In today’s episode of the MY Devotional Podcast, Dr. Michael Youssef identifies some of the most dangerous thoughts believers face in painful seasons: “God doesn’t love me,” “God has abandoned me,” or “God isn’t hearing my prayers.”
When those lies take root, joy, peace, and confidence in God can begin to fade. But hardship does not change God’s character. He remains a loving Father who hears His children and keeps His promises.
If you are walking through a difficult season, refuse to interpret God through your circumstances. Keep trusting Him with the eyes of faith.
Prayer: Lord, help me to trust You. Grant me Your eternal vision, remembering my hope is in You. May Your Gospel—Your powerful love for me—protect me from the temptation to doubt Your care. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6-7).
*Excerpt adapted from Fearless Living in Troubled Times by Michael A. Youssef © 2017. Published by Harvest House Publishers, Eugene, OR. Used by permission.
Learn more in Dr. Michael A. Youssef’s sermon Until Christ Returns, Resisting Satan Until He Falls: LISTEN NOW