Friends, when life gets really difficult, don’t jump to the conclusion that God isn’t on the job.
1 Peter 4:12 MSG
The disposition of a believer to trials, challenges or tribulations of any kind should be trust, joy and rest. A believer is assured that when he goes through unfavorable circumstances, he will come out of it victorious. The trials we are talking about are not the ones that originate from sin. A sinner cannot boast of the presence of God when difficulties arise, because God cannot behold iniquity (Habakkuk 1:13). These sufferings ought to produce righteousness in a believer.
Job is such man who was righteous but encountered trials and sufferings of great magnitude. He lived in the land of Uz and was prosperous. He enjoyed a life of blessings, but one day, tragedy struck. Job lost his wealth, his ten children, and his health. Despite his immense suffering, Job refused to turn away from God and remained faithful. His friends offered misguided advice, questioning his righteousness, but Job defended his innocence. He cried out to God, seeking understanding. In a divine encounter, God reminded Job of His sovereignty and wisdom. Through his trials, Job’s faith deepened, teaching us the importance of unwavering trust in God even in the face of unimaginable hardship.
The life of Job reminds us that trials are not uncommon, but rather opportunities for growth and resilience. Life’s challenges, as followers of Christ, should come as no surprise; they refine and test our faith. Instead of despair, rejoice in sufferings, for they align you with the sufferings of Christ. The presence of problems and challenges does not mean God is not available. Don’t be disheartened; rather, be filled with joy, knowing that trials prepare you for greater purposes. Rejoicing in adversity may seem counterintuitive, but it strengthens your spirit and molds your character.
Trials teach us reliance on God; surrender to Him and allow His strength to sustain you through every trial. Instead of focusing on the pain, fix your gaze on the future glory that awaits those who endure faithfully. Trust that your trials are not in vain; God is using them to develop a testimony of His faithfulness in your life. View trials as opportunities for spiritual growth, allowing them to deepen your faith and draw you closer to God. As you embrace trials, hold onto the promise that, in due time, God will restore, strengthen, and establish you.
