Throughout the Bible, godly people were faced with adversity: Ruth lost her husband, Joseph was wrongfully thrown into prison, Paul was beaten and mocked many times, etc. The list goes on and on. And of course: Jesus, God himself, suffered a great deal as well. People who did everything right and lived a godly life went through big pain. Their lives were filled with tribulations.
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33
Jesus even tells us that we will have trouble in this world. There’s no escape from facing challenges and difficult times. But the Son of God assures us, that he has overcome the dark forces of this world. Jesus won over the devil himself in his resurrection. That’s why we can take heart and be encouraged. Jesus Christ made a way, so that we are free, and we can rejoice in every test and trial.
Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. James 1:2-4
Let’s see hardships as an opportunity for growth instead of something that is trying to put us down. Without adversities, we would never be stretched and therefore we wouldn’t have any chance to grow. If you want to become stronger and more confident, face your trials!
What does the challenging time you’re in right now reveal about yourself? What deep issues of your heart surface in the face of adversity? During times of difficulties, what’s inside of us gets revealed. Whether we are trusting God or whether we’re relying on the things of this world, will become visible. Whatever the issues your heart reveals, bring them before God and use this season as a chance to grow.
Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Deuteronomy 31:6
We were never promised a life without trials and tribulations, but God promises to walk us through every tough situation. Because he loves us, he would never ever leave us when we’re at our worst. Instead, he wants us to grow and mature into the likeness of who he is. Decide to approach your difficulties with a teachable spirit, and with the help of the Holy Spirit, you’ll come out of it even stronger than before.
Read more:
How to find joy despite your circumstances
What to do in a season of waiting
How God told me what job to apply to
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9 replies on “Grow from adversity”
Am speechless
I pray that may guide our path of life
Amen!
“During times of difficulties, what’s inside of us gets revealed. ” – YES! That’s such a great point! Sometimes, God puts us through trials to show us our own hearts. I heard a pastor say once that when we’re in a trial, we’re being “squeezed” and whatever is inside will come out. That really stuck with me, and now whenever I trial comes, I remember that and watch myself to see if God is getting the glory through me or if I’m just releasing anger, bitterness, etc about my situation. Thanks so much for sharing this encouragement, Madeleine!
This is so good, Abigail. Thanks for sharing! I love what that pastor said. Such a good metaphor.
Am truly blessed and encouraged
So good! 😊💕
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A penas e visto este blog y me parece muy práctico de entender y ponerlo en práctica
La Gloria sea a Dios por usar mujeres para animar y con la Guía del Espíritu Santo encontrar las respuestas a sus preguntas