SEPTEMBER 2008

Though God is sovereign and omnipotent, many believers don't trust Him to guide them. Instead they think about obedience on a case-by-case basis, evaluating how the consequences of various choices might affect their life. But the Lord desires followers whose lifestyle is submissive--in other words, people who've made a deliberate decision to surrender to His will in every circumstance.

When confronted with the idea of absolute submission, many of us are assaulted by anxious thoughts: What if the Lord wants me to do something I can't? Or, What if I don't want to do what He asks? We fear we wouldn't have the strength, wisdom, or faith to carry out commands He might give. And we'd be right--if we relied upon our own resources. But if we commit to obedience, God equips us at the right moment to follow where He leads.

One obedient act prepares us for the next. Each step of faith shows us that God not only supplies the tools and preparation for doing His will; He also handles the consequences.

In spite of the God's faithfulness, however, we will take a misstep every now and then. We're not alone. As Scripture shows, even saints' lives include occasional rebellious acts, because obedience is a learning process. Jesus rebuked Peter several times (Matt. 16:21-23; John 18:10-11; Mark 14:72). Yet He continued to train the disciple in righteousness.

Believers learn from both successes and failures how to live a lifestyle of commitment. But we must first make a decision to follow God regardless of the outcome. His sovereignty demands our obedience.

Adversity is never enjoyable, but thankfully, believers are assured that God has a reason for allowing difficulty. And your response to the trial will determine whether it leaves you broken or strengthened.

Romans 5:3-5 states, "We exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; and hope does not disappoint . . . " In order to respond correctly and benefit the way this verse describes, let's consider how the Lord works in suffering.

First, He controls the burdens so they aren't too heavy to bear. He limits them because His goal is not to destroy you but to build your character. Second, He designs the difficulty according to your personality, character, and areas that need growth. Therefore, trials are tailor-made in order to grow you to be more like Christ. Third, difficulties are progressive. As God matures you, the intensity may seem to increase. This is similar to weight training: at the beginning, an athlete trains with light barbells, but as his muscles become stronger, he chooses heavier weights. Similarly, as your walk with Christ progresses, obstacles that once seemed overbearing will impede you less. This is a sign of growth. In fact, a prayer journal is a great way to watch God's progress in your life.

In the midst of your pain, see your trial as a privilege--God is revealing His ways and refining you. Thank Him for trusting you with this situation. Then, ask how to respond, and walk obediently before Him.

Most likely, you have heard the age-old question, "If God is good, how can He let bad things happen?" Since the fall of man, life has always included hardship. Though trials are painful, understanding the Lord's purpose can bring joy and hope.

The Word of God is clear that suffering is purposeful. Primarily, the Lord is conforming His children to be like Him (Rom. 8:29). When a person is newly saved, he or she still has many "rough edges." The journey ahead, called sanctification, involves the process of becoming holy--and few things build character like sorrow. Unfortunately, people rarely mature during pleasant times. Instead, pain brings impurities to the surface and forces people to see the reality of their lives.

Another reason the Father allows trials is to test the faith of His children. Of course, He doesn't need this for His own information--it is the believers who benefit. Tested faith is stronger and more reliable than untried faith.

Furthermore, God allows hardship in order to reveal His character, love, and power. During life's storms, people who cling to their heavenly Father will find Him trustworthy and real. When the next difficulty arises, they'll remember His faithfulness during the previous trial and will rest confidently in Him.

While no one wants to suffer, experience and sorrow will mature the believer. We can learn certain things from books and other people's stories, but most growth occurs during trials. So, when problems occur and sorrow seems piercing, thank God for His purpose in your suffering.

Disappointments and even some discouragement are bound to affect everybody at some point. Yet believers need not remain disheartened by frustrations and setbacks. It is possible to experience joy and peace, even when our expectations aren't met.

When you feel let down, take these steps:

1. Look inward. What is causing your hopeless feelings? Ask God to reveal anything within you that may be part of the problem (for example, an unforgiving spirit).

2. Admit you are discouraged. Confess that you are allowing the emotion to grip you.

3. Look upward. To stop wallowing in the pain, you must take the focus off yourself and place it on the Father.

4. Recognize that this is a spiritual issue. Your present situation can help you learn how to deal with trials when emotions are low.

5. Get into God's Word. Notice how the men and women of the Bible handled disappointments. For example, through his many years of undeserved difficulties, Joseph clung to his faith that God was still in control.

6. Humble yourself and cry out to the Lord. Remembering His past faithfulness can build your confidence that He will continue to provide.

You may hurt for a season, but you don't have to be overwhelmed to the point of giving up. As a Christian, you can take refuge in your all-powerful, all-wise, loving Father. Recall how He has worked in previous times of letdown. Then be assured that this situation will be another faithfulness story to add to your collection.