Some friends at a broadcast ministry where I served over 15 years ago were texting about the adventures and memories of those times. And the phrase came up. Those were the “good old days.” I had to answer them. “No…those weren’t the good old days.

They were the GREAT old days.

That got me thinking about those special days. Did we have challenges and problems? Absolutely. Did we have times when we didn’t have the funds we needed to keep the ministry going and growing? Absolutely. So why did we think those days were great…or even good?

I believe it was in the struggle of those days that our outstanding team of servants pulled together even more than usual. Financial struggles caused us to tighten the ministry belt. I remember one staffer going around making sure the lights in the bathroom were turned off. Most folks used both sides of the yellow post-it notes. The monthly staff lunch became a time when each person brought their favorite food, and we all shared.

The struggles of those days led to a stronger relationship among the staff, and a real sense of joy as we overcame challenge after challenge. And we prayed through the difficult days for the Lord to bless. And He did. In spite of the struggles, those times weren’t just good days…they were great days.

Legendary American football coach Lou Holtz explains the importance of struggles in life this way:

“Show me someone who has done something worthwhile, and I’ll show you someone who has overcome adversity.”

Blind Helen Keller, who overcame great adversity, reminds us to focus past today’s downturns to what tomorrow may bring.

“Be of good cheer. Do not think of today’s failures, but of the success that may come tomorrow. You have set yourself a difficult task, but you will succeed if you persevere, and you will find a joy in overcoming obstacles.”

A joy in overcoming! That’s a great perspective. And it is a good reminder that today’s struggles and adversities are not the ultimate defining characteristics for us. How we handle the challenges is what makes the difference.

Solomon talked about what we learn from adversity.

If you fail under pressure, your strength is too small. Proverbs 24:10 NLT

Peter wrote about the rewards…the hope… we have as we deal with life’s challenges. See how Eugene Peterson paraphrased Peter’s encouragement.

You’re not the only ones plunged into these hard times. It’s the same with Christians all over the world. So keep a firm grip on the faith. The suffering won’t last forever. It won’t be long before this generous God who has great plans for us in Christ—eternal and glorious plans they are!—will have you put together and on your feet for good. He gets the last word; yes, he does. 1 Peter 5:10-11 MSG

We have many challenges and adversities today…from the global pandemic to racial unrest to economic downturns to oppression from those opposed to the Gospel. In 10 years or 20 years, how will we see these days? We can look back and remember the struggles, defeats, and failures. Or we can see the hand of God, we can respond with a positive attitude because of His promises and see days that weren’t just good…but were great!

The Lord gave Joshua advice that serves us well today.

This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9 NLT

These challenging days can be tomorrows “great old days” if you live in the light of God’s promises.