Learning Endurance through Tough Times

How do you react when adversity strikes? What is your response when you are dealt a set-back? Do you throw up your hands and cry "Why me?" Do you fume at the seeming randomness of afflictions? Do you get mad at God and doubt his concern for you?

Our reactions to tough times depend on how we view them. If we see them as unwelcome intrusions into our plan for security, safety, comfort, and convenience we will tend to respond with frustration, despair, anger, and unbelief. Our interpretation of trials is the key.

The writer of Hebrews urges us to view our "tough times" as the loving discipline of our heavenly Father who is committed to our spiritual victory. He knows we need endurance. And He knows the only way to gain endurance is through vigorous training. Consider Hebrews 12:10-12:

"He disciplines us for our good, that we may share his holiness. For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it."

Lest you think this is head-in-the-clouds spirituality lacking real-world grit, remember that this is being written to the persecuted church! If this is solid counsel for a church facing opposition and persecution, it certainly is for us as well! Rather than wringing our hands and falling down in desperation, we need to clasp our hands and fall to our knees in prayer.

So at the next flat-tire, appliance break-down, relational conflict, vocational disappointment, financial down-turn (fill in the blank here!), surrender the crisis to God, see his commitment to our progress in the tough times, and look to the fruit this will yield in our lives and for eternity!

The well wisher of your soul's happiness,

Pastor Tom