Adversity
Posted on August 24, 2017 by Graeme Wilson in Freedom Fighters
“For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, Which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.” — Ecclesiastes 7:14
A wise man once told me “it’s a lonely man that demands his circumstances be changed to his liking, but true character is built when we face adversity.” It seems that people are choosing to protest all the wrong doings that they see to be unfair. It reminds me of that kid in the neighborhood who would take his ball and go home because he felt he was being treated wrong. I would often wonder why it seemed better to him to sit home all alone while we would just find something else to do and have fun.
The world is unfair, either rise to the challenge or wallow in your pity. I have come to realize that adversity is a hindrance that God can use as a building block or stepping stone to make us into the men He has called us to be. Think of all the verses that encourage us to face trials, “count it ALL for joy, knowing that ALL things work together for good.”
Picture with me if you will, two groups of people, both ordered oranges but because there were no oranges they were given lemons instead. One group demanded a protest until they got what they wanted while the other group made lemonade. This is not to diminish the fact that there are things that are unfair and I would be ignorant to say that there isn’t a problem with racism. I just don’t understand some peoples answer to the problem. I have personally been falsely judged by others and although there are things I would have done differently the best advice I received was “Prove them wrong.”
I’ve wasted too much time trying to vindicate myself, after spinning my wheels in protest I found comfort in the fact that we have a God who vindicates us, Psalm 35:1, 24 Contend, O LORD, with those who contend with me, fight against those who fight against me! Vindicate me, O LORD, my God, according to your righteousness, and let them not rejoice over me!
So if you’re facing adversity today, know that God wants to use it for good, walk in it with the confidence that He has your back. Amen!
Written by Rob Russomano: Rob Russomano is married to Terri, he is a graduate of the Colony of Mercy and a full time staff member. He is also available as a speaker of the grace of God with a message of Hope for church events. You can contact him at rrussomano@americaskeswick.org.
The Daily Bible Reading: Proverbs 17-18| You can download our 2017 Daily Bible Reading Plan by clicking here
Daily Quote: “Conflict is inevitable, but combat is optional.” – Max Lucado
This Week’s Verse to Memorize:
“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:6-7
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