1 Peter 4:12-13
Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ’s sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy.
The Bible says in this world you will have tribulation. Some of you have experienced challenges in life. God never promised a problem-free life, but He did promise He will always be with you, He will never leave you nor forsake you – Deuteronomy 31:8.
In this pandemic some have lost their jobs, some are experiencing financial situations, business closures or failures, experiencing marital crises, dealing with family illnesses, dealing with unexpected tragedies, dealing with the sudden death of loved ones, dealing with rejection; just to name a few. Crises come in many different forms. But what do you do? What can you do to endure and survive the crisis? What can you do when you feel hopeless and crisis reigns? What do you do when fear seems to be suffocating you? It is imperative to know that a crisis doesn’t mean something is wrong with you or you did something wrong. Don’t ever believe that God doesn’t love you or He’s angry with you.
You can be in the perfect will of God and still not be exempted from a crisis. A crisis is a normal part of life. You can choose to allow it to cripple you or to use it as a growth factor. For example, a mango tree begins with a single seed planted; it struggles against the soil only to be confronted by the fierce wind, the pouring rain, the smoldering sun, and countless adversities year after year to become a big evergreen tree with a thick trunk and magnificent canopy. The seed of faith is planted in the soil of crisis, and it will bring forth life and beauty in its season. The Bible says God makes all things beautiful in its time. The crisis that you are in will not last.
Things to note:
- It is in crisis that your faith can grow. It is only when your faith is tested by fire that you know how strong your faith is and your character develops.
- It is in crisis you see the power of God, how He delivered the children of Israel in the wilderness, and how He delivered you from past struggles. He is God the Deliverer! He is our ever-present help in our time of challenges.
- A crisis develops our confidence. As our confidence is built up, so does our capacity. God sent a lion for David to destroy and gain confidence, then a bear before He sent a giant. Similarly, the struggles you’re battling now may be designed to expand your confidence and character for the next one.
God is transforming you into a lion of the kingdom. Remember the great promise of Isaiah 43:2 “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; And through the rivers, they shall not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, Nor shall the flame scorch you.” (NKJV).
Remember God will never give you more than you can bear. Allow Him to make you into an overcomer. He’s the Christ for every crisis. Trust Him today in your crisis.
Read: Job 1:13-22; 1 Samuel 17:34-37
Bible Reading Guide: Proverbs 13:20-25; Proverbs 14:1-4; John 20:10-31; 2 Samuel 1; 2 Samuel 2:1-7
