Before we dive deep, let’s think about this: Do you believe that if you follow God, you won’t face any problems? Many people think that having trouble means they’ve done something wrong. But today, let’s clear up this confusion. While sin can cause problems, facing difficulties doesn’t always mean we’ve sinned. Let’s learn together and find comfort in knowing that challenges are a natural part of our journey with God.
As we reflect on the lives of faithful servants who, despite their obedience to God, encountered trials and tribulations, we see that following God’s will often involves facing adversity.
- Joseph: A man of integrity, Joseph was betrayed by his brothers, thrown into a pit, imprisoned, and eventually rose to the palace (Genesis 39). His obedience and fear of God didn’t shield him from hardships, but the Lord was with him throughout his journey. When we face adversity despite our obedience, let us remember that the Lord is always with us.
- Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego: These three refused to bow down to the king’s idol and were cast into a fiery furnace (Daniel 3:16-18). Their unwavering obedience led them into intense heat, where the Lord’s miraculous presence was evident, shielding them from harm.
- Daniel: Known for his faith and devotion to God, Daniel faced the threat of being devoured by lions for his obedience in prayer (Daniel 6:3, 16-22). His trust in God’s protection in times of danger serves as an example of unwavering faith for us all.
- Jesus: The epitome of obedience, Jesus endured crucifixion to fulfill the Father’s will (Matthew 26:39). His sacrifice brings hope to believers, showing that through obedience, even in suffering, God’s redemptive plan prevails.
Let these stories inspire us to remain faithful, knowing that God’s presence is with us through every trial. As we journey in obedience, let us find strength in the testimonies of these faithful servants. Trials are an inevitable part of our walk with God, but His grace and faithfulness sustain us. In times of adversity, let us lean on God’s promises, trusting that He works all things for our good (Romans 8:28).
Let us stand firm in obedience, knowing that God never lies or fails to act (Numbers 23:19). “God is not a man, that He should lie, Nor a son of man, that He should repent; Has He said, and will He not do it? Or has He spoken, and will He not make it good?”
Like all of the stories we have seen in Scripture—for those who love and obey God, their stories don’t end with adversity but victory, always remember that.
Consider this
If you find yourself in adversity:
- Turn inward: Heed the conviction of the Holy Spirit and confess sins daily as a spiritual discipline (1 John 1:9). “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” Remember, there is no condemnation in Christ (Romans 8:1). “There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit.”
- Turn to the Word: It is the foundation of our faith. Know the Word to counter the enemy’s lies, as Jesus did (Matthew 4).
- Turn your eyes towards Jesus: Recall the victories that followed adversity—Joseph was elevated from prison to palace; Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego went from the fire to flourishing; Daniel went from the lion’s den to triumph; and our Lord Jesus went from crucifixion to resurrection. Hebrews 11:11 reminds us of God’s faithfulness to fulfill His promises.
