Hardships create opportunities
Does God use adverse circumstances in our lives to create witnessing opportunities for Christ? Have you ever wondered why that pain was a necessity? ‘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’ (Romans 8:28).
This verse doesn’t say that a Christian will receive only good things in his or her life. Rather, it states that Christians will experience hardships as part of a comprehensive plan for good.
More than likely, you were not chosen to endure the adversity because of some bad deed or disobedience to God, but to be a witnessing instrument prepared for a future occasion (2 Corinthians 1:3-6). Clearly, God never maliciously places his children under stress; or in difficult situations without having a reason.
‘Cast all your anxiety on him, because he cares for you’ (1 Peter 5:7). God made no mistake when he put you through that enormous amount of pain. It is amazing to think that God may have specifically chosen you as his personal representative to mitigate the hurt of others enduring the same adversity.
Many of us are like peanut brittle in that we crack under pressure. How can we properly equip ourselves to withstand turbulent times? In order to persevere, we must be disciplined enough to read God’s Word and depend on him fully despite our circumstances.
Wisdom
Wisdom in God’s Word can be achieved by anyone, and is one of the most powerful tools we can possess. It is paramount to read in Scripture about having faith and perseverance through troubling times; this allows us to see how our adversity can be turned into a story of hope and encouragement for others.
Never feel you are inadequate or do not have anything to offer anyone. Perhaps your careful choice of words will be instrumental in alleviating the hurt in others’ lives. Break down your story so that you can freely share it with others in pain.
Before you were even placed on this earth, God knew your inabilities as well as your strengths. ‘Before I formed you in the womb I knew you’ (Jeremiah 1:5). By seeking his help, we can be empowered to talk to anyone – whether face-to-face or over the phone; whether with a loved one, or even a complete stranger.
We might be the individual specifically chosen by God to help lead someone to Christ in their time of trouble! ‘Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age’ (Matthew 28:19-20).
Kasey M. Carter
Author of Forever Altered, Yet Unbroken
and Faithful Crushers Series
