Much of what is heard is gloom, and the emphasis is on man’s attempts to resolve the conflicts. It is extremely encouraging to the Christian to understand that the God in whom he trusts is the Sovereign God of the universe. Our God not only knows completely what lies ahead, but He has the power to bring His Plan for mankind to fulfillment. Therefore it is imperative that each of us who claim to know this God recognize that Jesus Christ is in control of human history. All the things that come into the life of the believer are ordained and ordered by God and His promise to be sufficient stands firm. Having believed in Christ as our Savior, we are His possession and God is faithful to provide for His own. The Apostle Paul reminds us with that comforting promise --
… “My grace is sufficient for thee: for My strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.”(2 Cor 12:9 KJV)
This was written during a time of great persecution of the Church and the writer himself was experiencing much adversity. His confidence in God’s provision not only would carry him in times of trouble, but actually become the motivation to evangelize, to plant local churches and to pen the epistles given by Divine inspiration. Paul’s life was living proof of God’s grace and sufficiency to cause all things to work for his spiritual good. Therefore the apostle says to the Philippian churches --
… “Not that I speak from want; for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need. I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.”(Phil 4:11-13 NASB)
The Apostle James also speaks of practical Christian living, admonishing us to be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger. He then turns his attention to how we should respond to adversity and trials of various kinds. There are two basic attitudes that surface in times of difficulty, either thanksgiving or complaining. James reminds us that there is always a Divine purpose in God allowing adversity to come into our lives. Rather than bitterness toward God, there should be inner peace and happiness. Thus the apostle writes --
“Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance.”(James 1:2- 3 NASB)
Writing to the churches in Rome, Paul expresses a similar thought --
… “But we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope (confidence). And hope (confidence) does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given you.”(Rom 5:3- 5 NASB)
May God grant us the strength to discern with spiritual eyesight all that comes into our lives, for He causes it to work for good to those who are His, to those who love Him.