Dealing with Adversity: Part 2

Dealing with Adversity: Part 2

How Do I Handle A Difficult Trial Not Of My Own Doing?

By Dave Pound

     Even those who maintain close, intimate fellowship with the Lord are not immune to disappointments, obstacles, challenges, struggles, and feelings of hopelessness. In fact, at times, God allows us to face impossible circumstances in order to test and try our faith. It is the adversity that motivates us to seek Him. When we do seek God, He faithfully strengthens and refreshes us.

     God knows every emotion, need, and desire we have. He cares when we face difficult situations and grow weary. He hears our cries and understands exactly what it will take to bring us into a more intimate relationship with Him.

     The apostle Peter addressed his two letters to those who reside as aliens, scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia (1 Peter 1:1; 2 Peter 3:1). If he were choosing a modern title for his letters, he might have considered "Encouragement for Times of Suffering" or "Hope for the Hurting" because encouragement and hope are exactly what Peter conveyed to these distressed believers.

     These Christians faced all kinds of persecution. They were beaten, slandered, and assaulted. They often lost their lives for their faith in Jesus Christ. Peter called them "aliens" because their citizenship was not of this world but of the kingdom of God. They faced times of great discouragement and loss and needed the courage only available to us through Christ. Peter explained that they could rejoice even in times of trial because Jesus, their risen Savior and Lord, would always be the living hope within them (1 Peter 1:3). So long as we have the Lord Jesus Christ, no situation is hopeless.

     Would you like to have eternal hope? Then focus your heart on Jesus (1 Timothy 4:6). He wants to bring His will and good pleasure to fruition in your life. Even if you find yourself in a seemingly impossible situation, remember that He has an entirely different view of the details. If you let Him, God will take your life, no matter how bruised and broken, and make something beautiful out of it.

     Isn't this what hope is all about? Beauty for ashes, gladness instead of sorrow, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of heaviness (Isaiah 61:1-3). This is the ongoing ministry of Jesus Christ in your life. Therefore, bring to Him your afflictions and disappointments. Tell God your sorrows and He will restore your hope.

Resource:

Charles Stanley Life Principles Bible page 1855.