Trusting God When Others’ Choices and Actions Affects Us

• Romans 8:28 (NKJV): “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.”

• James 1:2-4 (TPT): “When you are surrounded by difficulties, see it as an invaluable opportunity to experience the greatest joy that you can! For you know that when your faith is tested it stirs up in you the power of endurance. And then as your endurance grows even stronger, it will release perfection into every part of your being until there is nothing missing and nothing lacking.”

• James 1:13 (TPT): “When you are tempted, don’t ever say, ‘God is tempting me,’ for God is incapable

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of being tempted by evil, and He is never the source of temptation.”

• Isaiah 26:3 (NIV): “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.”

• 2 Corinthians 4:8-9 (NIV): “We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.”   

Life has a way of being deeply affected by the actions and choices of others. Perhaps you’ve experienced the pain of betrayal, the frustration of being let down, or even the ripple effects of someone’s poor decisions. These moments can shake our peace and test our faith. But even in these trials, God remains faithful.

When someone else’s choices and actions affect us, it’s natural to feel hurt, confused, or even angry. When we are trying to follow scriptural guidelines, and what others do affect our income and activities, we feel life is out of our control, and we are forced to live fighting for our peace by dwelling on God’s promises and only verbalizing His promises. However, the Bible gives us a roadmap for navigating these challenges without losing our peace. First, we must remember that nothing catches God by surprise. Romans 8:28 (KJV) reassures us that God works all things—even the hurt caused by others—together for good. God is the ultimate Redeemer, turning what was meant for harm into a stepping stone for His purpose in our lives.

James 1:2-4 (KJV) reminds us that these trials are not meaningless. When our faith is tested through the actions of others, it’s an opportunity for God to grow us in endurance, perseverance, and spiritual maturity. Though the experience may be painful, God uses it to perfect every part of our being until we lack nothing.

It’s also vital to guard our hearts against bitterness. While it’s easy to focus on the wrongs others have done, God calls us to extend forgiveness. Ephesians 4:32 (NIV) encourages us to “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” Forgiveness doesn’t excuse their actions, but it releases us from the burden of carrying the hurt and allows God’s peace to fill our hearts.

When others’ actions rob us of peace, Isaiah 26:3 (KJV) reminds us that God will keep us in perfect peace if our minds stay focused on Him. Rather than dwelling on the wrongs done to us, we must meditate on God’s promises and His ability to heal, restore, and guide us through the storm.

What Should We Do?

1. Bring Your Hurt to God
   Psalm 55:22 (NIV) tells us, “Cast your cares on the Lord and He will sustain you; He will never let the righteous be shaken.” Instead of carrying the weight of others’ sins, bring your pain to the Lord in prayer. He is big enough to handle your frustrations and faithful to comfort you.

2. Seek God’s Wisdom
   Ask God for wisdom in navigating the situation. James 1:5 (KJV) promises, “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” His guidance will help you respond with grace and truth.

3. Forgive and Let Go
   Forgiveness is a choice, not a feeling. Pray for God’s strength to forgive those who have hurt you, and trust Him to deal with their hearts. Romans 12:19 (NIV) says, “Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord.”

4. Keep Your Focus on Christ
   When others’ sins threaten your peace, refocus on Christ, who is our source of peace. Meditate on His Word and trust in His promises.

No matter how deeply others’ actions have hurt you, God is your refuge and strength. He is fully capable of taking what was meant to harm you and using it to bring about growth, healing, and blessings in your life. Trust Him to fight your battles and keep your heart anchored in His peace. Even when others’ sins create storms in our lives, we can rest in the truth that God is our anchor. He sees every tear, knows every heartache, and promises to turn our trials into triumphs. Keep your eyes on Him, and He will lead you into a place of peace and victory.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for being my refuge and strength in times of trouble. When others’ actions hurt me, remind me that You are in control and that nothing is beyond Your power to redeem. Help me to forgive as You have forgiven me and to trust in Your perfect plan, knowing that You are working all things together for my good. Guard my heart with Your peace and guide me with Your wisdom. In Jesus’ name, Amen.