Adversity

We all face adversity…sometimes as inconsequential as on the playing field, sometimes it has to do with a relationship ending, or a parent, teacher or boss who you feel gives you a bit too much to do. The scale of adversity goes all the way up to sickness and when a friend or family member dies.

Adversity is tough or else we would call it a good time. 

But though it is tough it can be good, because it shows who we really are, it shows what we truly believe and it shows what is most important to us. We see who we are through our reactions. 

Take a look at what happens to these chocolate bunnies when they face adversity. 

HT Marko

When adversity came, they melted, fade away, showed themselves to be hollow, and even lost their head. 

But check out Job, a man faced with more adversity than many of us combined, He said that the Lord gives and the Lord takes away but blessed be the name of the Lord. Job understood that God is good and that He is in control. 

So when you face adversity what are you like? The melting bunnies? Or Job who praised God? 

A few things to remember when you face adversity: 

• Look beyond the now: James 1:2-4
  You are going to grow. No athlete became good if they always thought about how hard practice was. Athletes persevere through tough times because they see that they are getting better and that winning down the road is the goal. 
• Serve God: Matthew 6:33
  Don’t worry, keep on serving Jesus. Make it your first priority to be about what God is about and you won’t have to worry. 
• Obey God (Love Him!): John 14:15
  Not just when it’s easy. Not cheating is pretty easy to do when you’ve studied for the test. But not cheating when it’s the final and your grade will determine if you pass or fail…that’s tough, but we still must obey in adversity.

Remember to the truth of Romans 8:28: And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.