I have to admit that some seasons in life are harder than others. At first when I first came to faith in Jesus, I developed a super hero mindset that viewed hardship as something I was going to be immune from. Funny this is, I thought that being a Christian meant that I was not ever going to actually have to stand firm in times of my life. Somehow in my little christian bubble, i hadn’t fully realized that the muscle of faith grows in hardship.
For so many of us here at Freedom, this has been a season of difficulties. From accepting the fact that change is happening and going through health battles to trusting God for what you can’t see in the here and now. I see you, friends. Navigating through trials is never easy and now in my life I see just how important it is to find inspiration. Listen, in the midst of struggle, we must find inspiration that develops our faith.
So what do we do when life is hard and things don’t seem to be going like we think they should? I offer a simple yet practical guide for giving us motivation to stand firm.
The Apostle Peter writes to the first century followers of Christ in an attempt to strengthen them from turning back, surrendering and giving in. Here is my reminder to you from 1 Peter:
- Live with great expectation. (1 Peter 1:3-4)
He’s reminding the believers that God’s great mercy through Christ is proof that they are born again and have a priceless inheritance. This is kept in heaven for us and it’s beyond change and decay!
Trials reveal a faith that is genuine. He says’ “So when your faith remains strong through many trials, it will bring you much praise and glory and honor… Friends, we must have faith in the God who saves! “Though you do not see Him now, you trust Him with a glorious, inexpressible joy”
After we commit our lives to Christ, we sometimes feel a pull back to our old ways. Simply put, our focus and priorities must be His. Rely on God’s power to free you from giving up and giving in so you can truly live to show others that God can be trusted.
- Suffer for good and endure it patiently. (1 Peter 2:20-21)
Recently God gave me a reminder to allow Christ to receive the glory of my sufferings. This is exactly what Peter is saying…”God is pleased with you”, when we do this. Christ Jesus is our example who “left his case in the hands of God”. That is powerful. Can we just leave our case in the hands of God like Jesus did? Yes, we can!
Let’s break up with a theology that thinks the Christian life is rainbows and butterflies. Don’t get me wrong, this life in Christ is the best decision that you will ever make but hear the last words of Peter from 1 Peter 4:19. “So if you are suffering in a manner that pleases God, keep on doing what is right, and trust your lives to the God who created you, for He will never fail you”.
Peace to all of you, God’s word stands forever.
Pastor Tim Dye
