Can't catch a break

[Steve W.]

Hello everyone. I hope all is well with you.

 

I try to focus on the positive things in life. But lately it seems like everyday theres something negative happening that tries to disrupt my peace.

 

Its been like this for at least a year and a half now.

 

I worked 2 jobs. But I quit 1 of them 5 months ago, to free up more time, so I can do more spiritually.

 

Since I quit that job, these random negative things seemed to have intensified.

 

I try to be spiritually strong. Doing my best to keep a good spiritual routine, while managing everyday life in general.

 

But it just seems really overwhelming sometimes.

 

I know many of us are facing different trials as Satan's system draws closer to it's end.

 

I just wanted to post how I've been feeling lately, and see if anyone else can relate? Or want to share your experiences?

 

Or if anyone has some advice/ encouragement?

[jwhess]

Things get to us in different levels.  Last Saturday, my granddaughter was visiting for the weekend (she is 15).  We decided to go out in the field ministry on Saturday and she made arrangements with my other granddaughter (who is in my congregation) for us to join their family.  When I drove over to the Kingdom Hall, I noticed that the windshield wiper was not clearing my windshield on the driver's side.  I thought it had a seed or leaf particle stuck und the blade.

 

When we made car groups, one older Spanish-speaking brother was left out of a car group.  So my Son-In-Law said, "We have a van so he can come with us".  We had to stop at their house and when we pulled into their driveway, he tried to put the window down and the mechanism broke.  We also discovered that the wiper blade was damaged.  So we decided to take our extra publisher back to the KH.  He said he had 3 or 4 calls he wanted to make (they are Spanish).  So we dropped him off, Picked up my daughters car (which holds 4) and took me back home.  We tried to tape the window up but it wouldn't hold.

 

So the 4 of them left me at home to do letter writing and they all went out together in the rain.  Then I called and tried to get an appointment to have the window fixed and the earliest they can do it is next Monday (24th).  Tomorrow My wife and I take the lead in cart witnessing but there is a 90% chance of rain and the high temperature is going to be 45 degrees (F) in the afternoon.  It will be just above freezing in the morning during our shift.

 

So despite our best efforts, time and unforeseen events overtake us all...🙂

Edited yesterday at 03:43 AM by jwhess

[Lance]

Well that phrase seems “ I can’t seem to catch a break”…. Seems to be a common sentiment today. I was talking to a close friend who just went through SKE.. They have been assigned to a small town, they have to rent out their condo at below what their mortgage payment is. The only place they can find to rent is a small basement suite with not even a stove. Work will be a challenge in a small town….

 

The expression conveys exhaustion, frustration, and the sense that circumstances are unfairly stacked against him.

So basically he doesn’t feel that he is being blessed. 
So we discussed what were some of the needs that he has been looking for in awhile…not the external ones were people notice you.. but what you really need.

Breaks do come….sometimes not in circumstances, but in the form of inner peace (Philippians 4:7).

7 and the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and your mental powers by means of Christ Jesus.

 

 

So when someone says “I can’t seem to catch a break,” they’re expressing the fatigue of constant setbacks.

But it can also be an opening for encouragement … reminding them that while external breaks may be rare, internal and spiritual breaks (peace, resilience, hope) are always available.

Think of life as climbing a steep hill. Saying “I can’t catch a break” is like noticing there’s no flat spot to rest.

But spiritually, prayer and friends can become those resting places…even if the hill itself doesn’t flatten right away.

 

In my friends case moving to a small town will force him to slow down..which he needs. No dragons to slay .. no major issues… maybe even a bit boring. 

The small town has many mature ones who have served Jehovah through many trials .. he needs some role models.

 

So how should we face the seemingly unfairness.. of life

When facing unfairness.. 4 tools

 

1)Name it honestly: “This feels unfair.”
2)Anchor it spiritually: “But Jehovah sees, and He provides inner peace.”
3)Seek role models: “Others have endured similar trials…I can learn from them.”
4)Reframe the meaning: “This is not punishment, but preparation.”

 

So, the way to face unfairness isn’t to deny it or minimize it, but to reframe it as part of the refining process. That way, even when external breaks don’t come, the internal breaks….peace, resilience, hope…become the true blessings.

 

I think of the Apostle Paul the King of “not catching a break” … how many ship wrecks.. how many beatings .. on and on ..

 

So, Paul’s perspective was not “I can’t catch a break,” but rather:

 

Phil 4:12-13

12 I know how to be low on provisions and how to have an abundance. In everything and in all circumstances I have learned the secret of both how to be full and how to hunger, both how to have an abundance and how to do without.

13 For all things I have the strength through the one who gives me power.

Edited yesterday at 05:27 AM by Lance

[Dustparticle]

3 hours ago, Steve W. said:

Hello everyone. I hope all is well with you.

 

I try to focus on the positive things in life. But lately it seems like everyday theres something negative happening that tries to disrupt my peace.

 

Its been like this for at least a year and a half now.

 

I worked 2 jobs. But I quit 1 of them 5 months ago, to free up more time, so I can do more spiritually.

 

Since I quit that job, these random negative things seemed to have intensified.

 

I try to be spiritually strong. Doing my best to keep a good spiritual routine, while managing everyday life in general.

 

But it just seems really overwhelming sometimes.

 

I know many of us are facing different trials as Satan's system draws closer to it's end.

 

I just wanted to post how I've been feeling lately, and see if anyone else can relate? Or want to share your experiences?

 

Or if anyone has some advice/ encouragement?

 

 Right now you having a break of posting this and that is fine. One way or another, we face a difficult times. If you not working today, just go out in the ministry. It might soothe you. Even just one hour out can mean a lot of deference. Jehovah understands what you are going through and we all love you too. 
 

  Do not forget that Jehovah provide us with may gifts and that is his son, bible,  ministry, bible base publications, and organization. The world does not   have these because they choose to ignore it. Later on today the new Watchtower (February 2026) should be in line with new info on P&S from Questions  from Readers. Take time to look at this with your bible too. 
 

 At times a spiritual break is what we need and Jehovah knows you need it my brother. Get your good night sleep and have a blessed day too.

Edited yesterday at 06:05 AM by Dustparticle

[kejedo]

My only-ever-husband of over 40 years died and left me with many, many problems. My first born son was headed his way here (from a different state) to live, work, and help out, and he passed away two months ago. Before that my house was on fire, not repaired yet though insured, my bank account has been robbed and de-frauded, Life savings gone. Police and bank involved. Apparently another son was the culprit. Can't die right now b/c I used up my cemetery plot (for in case I died in this system) for my now deceased son, who is buried with his father. Not looking to catch a break but I do try to stay active in service to Jehovah. I have enough dog food for several days and some change. This is a partial list, not a contest. Sorry about that windshield wiper. Glad you had grandchildren to go in service with you. 

[Steve W.]

15 hours ago, jwhess said:

Things get to us in different levels.  Last Saturday, my granddaughter was visiting for the weekend (she is 15).  We decided to go out in the field ministry on Saturday and she made arrangements with my other granddaughter (who is in my congregation) for us to join their family.  When I drove over to the Kingdom Hall, I noticed that the windshield wiper was not clearing my windshield on the driver's side.  I thought it had a seed or leaf particle stuck und the blade.

 

When we made car groups, one older Spanish-speaking brother was left out of a car group.  So my Son-In-Law said, "We have a van so he can come with us".  We had to stop at their house and when we pulled into their driveway, he tried to put the window down and the mechanism broke.  We also discovered that the wiper blade was damaged.  So we decided to take our extra publisher back to the KH.  He said he had 3 or 4 calls he wanted to make (they are Spanish).  So we dropped him off, Picked up my daughters car (which holds 4) and took me back home.  We tried to tape the window up but it wouldn't hold.

 

So the 4 of them left me at home to do letter writing and they all went out together in the rain.  Then I called and tried to get an appointment to have the window fixed and the earliest they can do it is next Monday (24th).  Tomorrow My wife and I take the lead in cart witnessing but there is a 90% chance of rain and the high temperature is going to be 45 degrees (F) in the afternoon.  It will be just above freezing in the morning during our shift.

 

So despite our best efforts, time and unforeseen events overtake us all...🙂

I'm sorry to hear about the challenges you've been experiencing. I've had my fair share of car issues lately as well. I appreciate the Ecclesiastes 9:11 reference you made. Great reminder to keep matters in perspective. I hope things work out with you.

[Steve W.]

15 hours ago, Lance said:

Well that phrase seems “ I can’t seem to catch a break”…. Seems to be a common sentiment today. I was talking to a close friend who just went through SKE.. They have been assigned to a small town, they have to rent out their condo at below what their mortgage payment is. The only place they can find to rent is a small basement suite with not even a stove. Work will be a challenge in a small town….

 

The expression conveys exhaustion, frustration, and the sense that circumstances are unfairly stacked against him.

So basically he doesn’t feel that he is being blessed. 
So we discussed what were some of the needs that he has been looking for in awhile…not the external ones were people notice you.. but what you really need.

Breaks do come….sometimes not in circumstances, but in the form of inner peace (Philippians 4:7).

7 and the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and your mental powers by means of Christ Jesus.

 

 

So when someone says “I can’t seem to catch a break,” they’re expressing the fatigue of constant setbacks.

But it can also be an opening for encouragement … reminding them that while external breaks may be rare, internal and spiritual breaks (peace, resilience, hope) are always available.

Think of life as climbing a steep hill. Saying “I can’t catch a break” is like noticing there’s no flat spot to rest.

But spiritually, prayer and friends can become those resting places…even if the hill itself doesn’t flatten right away.

 

In my friends case moving to a small town will force him to slow down..which he needs. No dragons to slay .. no major issues… maybe even a bit boring. 

The small town has many mature ones who have served Jehovah through many trials .. he needs some role models.

 

So how should we face the seemingly unfairness.. of life

When facing unfairness.. 4 tools

 

1)Name it honestly: “This feels unfair.”
2)Anchor it spiritually: “But Jehovah sees, and He provides inner peace.”
3)Seek role models: “Others have endured similar trials…I can learn from them.”
4)Reframe the meaning: “This is not punishment, but preparation.”

 

So, the way to face unfairness isn’t to deny it or minimize it, but to reframe it as part of the refining process. That way, even when external breaks don’t come, the internal breaks….peace, resilience, hope…become the true blessings.

 

I think of the Apostle Paul the King of “not catching a break” … how many ship wrecks.. how many beatings .. on and on ..

 

So, Paul’s perspective was not “I can’t catch a break,” but rather:

 

Phil 4:12-13

12 I know how to be low on provisions and how to have an abundance. In everything and in all circumstances I have learned the secret of both how to be full and how to hunger, both how to have an abundance and how to do without.

13 For all things I have the strength through the one who gives me power.

 

When you wrote "So when someone says “I can’t seem to catch a break,” they’re expressing the fatigue of constant setbacks." You definitely described how I've been feeling for quite a while.

 

But I appreciate your positive angle of looking at matters.

I definitely appreciate my blessings and never forget all Jehovah does for me. Not a day goes by that I don't thank Him for all the good in my life.

 

In my original post, I did say "I try to focus on the positive... but a lot of negative things occur that try to disrupt my peace."

So I was acknowledging that theres positive things in my life... including having peace from Jehovah.

But maybe I could've emphasized that a little better in my original post.

 

 

As far as your friends, that's wonderful they're in SKE!

But I'm sorry to hear about their living situation with no stove.

May I suggest they get an Instant pot. They can get 1 on Amazon for about $100.

 

I have 2 that I use 95% more than my stove. They cook food in a fraction of the time a stove/ oven does.

They save on space, energy cost, and clean up time. Maybe this can be a great help for their current living arrangements.

[Steve W.]

14 hours ago, Dustparticle said:

 

 Right now you having a break of posting this and that is fine. One way or another, we face a difficult times. If you not working today, just go out in the ministry. It might soothe you. Even just one hour out can mean a lot of deference. Jehovah understands what you are going through and we all love you too. 
 

  Do not forget that Jehovah provide us with may gifts and that is his son, bible,  ministry, bible base publications, and organization. The world does not   have these because they choose to ignore it. Later on today the new Watchtower (February 2026) should be in line with new info on P&S from Questions  from Readers. Take time to look at this with your bible too. 
 

 At times a spiritual break is what we need and Jehovah knows you need it my brother. Get your good night sleep and have a blessed day too.

 

Yes I love the ministry. I've been doing more letter writing lately, and informal witnessing every chance I get.

But I went out in the door-to-door ministry last week. And I had a wonderful time as always.

 

Thanks for the reminders of Jehovah's gifts and His many displays of love.

I love you all too, and thank you for your words of encouragement, they are greatly appreciated.

[Steve W.]

2 hours ago, kejedo said:

My only-ever-husband of over 40 years died and left me with many, many problems. My first born son was headed his way here (from a different state) to live, work, and help out, and he passed away two months ago. Before that my house was on fire, not repaired yet though insured, my bank account has been robbed and de-frauded, Life savings gone. Police and bank involved. Apparently another son was the culprit. Can't die right now b/c I used up my cemetery plot (for in case I died in this system) for my now deceased son, who is buried with his father. Not looking to catch a break but I do try to stay active in service to Jehovah. I have enough dog food for several days and some change. This is a partial list, not a contest. Sorry about that windshield wiper. Glad you had grandchildren to go in service with you. 

I'm sorry to hear about the lost you've experienced with your husband and son.

(Psalm 34:18) Jehovah is close to the brokenhearted.

 

And I'm sorry for the other trials you've experienced.

I've been a victim of identity fraud also, so I empathize with you.

May Jehovah's spirit bring you comfort and peace.

[Ishaya]

A break is what you give yourself my brother,this system never gives you a break.

 

The good thing is, happiness does not really depend on what is happening to you,it depends on how you choose to respond.

Feeling bad or disturbed may seem like an automatic and unavoidable response to disappointments,but in reality this response is actually our choice and we just allow it to happen since you know we feel it's unavoidable.

I closely studied the connection between disappointments and the feeling it produces in us,I realize that we actually have a choice on how to feel in the face of disappointment and unless we train our minds to choose something else for ourselves,the common connection or pathway will simply apply.

 

Fighting the negatives requires a great deal of training my brother,but it is achievable to choose to be happy no matter what we're experiencing.it requires you to develop your thinking on the fundamental principle of happiness:we don't choose what happens,but we can choose how we respond.

 

You have made the best choice to simplify your life(by quiting one job) so that you can give more attention to Godly devotion,this is a very wise decision Bro Steve,living simple leaves you with very few things to worry about,that in itself is peace-assuring.

[kejedo]

1 hour ago, Steve W. said:

I'm sorry to hear about the lost you've experienced with your husband and son.

(Psalm 34:18) Jehovah is close to the brokenhearted.

 

And I'm sorry for the other trials you've experienced.

I've been a victim of identity fraud also, so I empathize with you.

May Jehovah's spirit bring you comfort and peace.

Hope to see you on Qapla chat (again?). I'm in NY, but about 11 generations from being a native New Yawkah. It's nice to see some locals zooming. Yes, this is a tough day for poignant reasons. One of my cousins (from Fl) will call back soon. I have no family members in the truth, but we go way back  with nostalgic memories. Some times that helps. Thanks for the good wishes. I have been able to send some scriptures to B Students today. Makes the day seem productive.

[ReadYourBible]

I'd weigh in on what's on fire for me, but I don't want to depress anyone. At least no one has died this year yet.

 

I measure my spirituality by the challenges I face. If my struggles aren't trying to tear me apart or affecting some member of my family, I question whether I'm truly a good servant of Jehovah. I'm constantly fighting for my blessings.

 

Ever since I welcomed the sisters into my home 26 years ago, I've been in a battle with my adversary. I've shared some of my experiences in my profile updates over the past couple of years, but that's only part of the story. Most witnesses don't fully understand. Some might, like Andee, Lori, and Grumpy's Wife.

 

I have inner peace, and I know it's a possession of mine as a gift from Jehovah, but I have never known peace, because I've always been at war. It started in my childhood and continues to this day. 

 

I understand the feeling of never catching a break. But, the way I cope is by thinking if I weren't such a thorn in Satan's side, he wouldn’t spend every moment of his existence trying to make mine as miserable as possible. 

 

I recognize there are seasons for everything. However, much of what I've experienced feels too personal to be a mere coincidence. It’s 100% Satan at work, always seeking to attack the heart that loves Jehovah.

 

I love this scripture. Beloved ones, do not be surprised about the fiery trials that you are experiencing,+ as though something strange were happening to you. On the contrary, go on rejoicing+ over the extent to which you are sharers in the sufferings of the Christ,+ so that you may rejoice and be overjoyed also during the revelation of his glory.+ 14 If you are being reproached* for the name of Christ, you are happy,+ because the spirit of glory, yes, the spirit of God, is resting upon you.

 

And many are the hardships of the righteous one, but Jehovah rescue us from them all.

 

So hardships (can't catch a break) = righteous. Just got to keep contending.