Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. Christ’s invitation to those who are weary becomes very attractive in the midst of trials: “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Troubles point out our weaknesses and prompt us to rely on God in ways that we wouldn’t unless we had significant needs.
We have to stop and evaluate our situation, ask God for wisdom, obey His Word, and trust Him to bring the help we need. We can’t continue to pursue our goals, tasks, and relationships in the same manner. When adversity comes, we are forced to face problems and pressures that are too big for us to resolve. (See Romans 8:28–30.) On the basis of this purpose, all adversity “works together” for our good and God’s glory. They are a means through which God works to accomplish His will in our lives: to shape us so that we reflect the character of Christ. These men understood that in light of what Christ did for us by providing salvation, the difficulties we experience in this life take on new meaning. For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly” (Romans 5:3–6).
The Apostle Paul expressed a similar perspective on adversity: “ We glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience and patience, experience and experience, hope: and hope maketh not ashamed because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing” (James 1:2–4). James the Apostle recommended a surprising response to troubles: “My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience.
0 kommentar(er)
