Sunday, May 3, 2009

Why Adversity?

“And in the same way the Spirit also helps our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we should, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words; and He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He intercedes for the saints according to the will of God. And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” Romans 8:26-28

We tend to build an impenetrable wall around our lives which will give the impression that we have our ‘act together,’ that we are one of the strong ones, unaffected by the things that frustrate, hurt, or destroy others.

In building this wall, we put ourselves in opposition to God’s intended work in and through our lives. We position ourselves as prime candidates to receive great adversity.

The conflict of the world system and the principles of God’s kingdom collide when the issue of adversity arises. The world says, “Only the strong survive. To the victor (the strong, best, winner) go the spoils.”

But Jesus said "...the meek shall inherit the earth - the poor in spirit, the merciful, the pure in heart, the peacemakers, those who mourn, and those who are persecuted are truly blessed. Matthew 5:3-11

If you find yourself now in an adverse situation, use the experience to examine yourself. Are you responding just like your unsaved friends? Allow adversity the opportunity to draw you closer to Christ.

Remember this thought -
Adversity is God’s way of reminding us of our dependence on Him!