ADVERSITY

True...when we step out in faith and live our lives against the grain, we will encounter adversity. It seems inevitable. But, it is also true that when we rest in God's will for our lives, in spite of adversity which may accompany His plans, there remains peace.

 

"If you faint in the day of adversity, your strength is small."

Proverbs 24:10

 

Oh, that our strength (God's strength in us, really) might not shrink in the day of adversity, but rather soar all the more through our trials and weaknesses, persecutions and dilemmas. God is always good.

 

"But he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.'

Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me."

2 Corinthians 12:9

 

Oh, that God's love would prevail in all things as He works even adversity for good!

 

"Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins."

1 Peter 4:8

 

Oh, that love for one another would remain, even when God has designed us all to be so very different.

 

"Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.'

Ephesians 4:32

 

There's joy in accepting God's workmanship through adversity. There's growth through the trials.

There's peace in holding fast to our heart's convictions even when we are opposed.

 

Fear God, not man. I remind myself each day.

 

Do not violate your conscience. A recent sermon reminds me of this too.

 

"But whoever has doubts is condemned if he eats, because the eating is not from faith.

For whatever does not proceed from faith is sin."

Romans 14:23

"So I always take pains to have a clear conscience toward both God and man."
Acts 24:15

 

"With a clear conscience, you live in an abundance of freedom and joy." -John MacArther

 

Yes, it would be sinful to violate our conscience when we feel peace in the Lord's directing.

Yes, there is freedom and joy in such doing.

And, yes, this may bring with it adversity. But, that's ok.

God works ALL things for good for those who LOVE Him...and we do.

 

"And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good,

for those who are called according to his purpose."

Romans 8:28
 

"Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer."

Romans 12:12