Proven character

CHRISTIAN LIVING TODAY

Anita

Even if adversity has benefits, who looks forward to it?

Not me, however, scripture tells us that adversity has beneficial potential for us. Reconsidering tribulation, endurance is the first benefit mentioned.

Romans 5:3-5 is clear that endurance and perseverance come when we bear the weight of suffering — much like weight training in the gym. A similar process of building muscle, endurance builds character.

Character distinguishes us, that we are unique, and not cookie cutter robots. Character demonstrates integrity, personality, choices, compassion and responsibility. Character tells others just who we are.

Character develops through what we learn and our choices made amid suffering, as adversity refines our character. Character building shows through our obedience to God. He uses adversity to remove the dross from our lives, so that our character is more clear.

The journey through adversity molds and shapes us, and the final product is hope … a hope that does not disappoint, because: through the Holy Spirit, God pours His love into our hearts. [Rom 5:5] That is a big deal. Who would have thought that suffering ultimately brings hope? We thrive on hope, remember, “hope deferred makes the heart sick.” Proverbs 13:12 Biblical hope is confident anticipation of God’s deliverance. He is the object and trustworthy source. Etch this definition deep into your brain, memorize it or write it on a note where you can read it easily each day.

The prophet Jeremiah wrote Lamentations. In chapter 3:22-26, he wrote about reassuring himself, to ensure his hope. He said, “This I call to mind … (that) He/God is steadfast, that His love never ceases; that His mercies are new each day.”

Jeremiah demonstrates how to take every thought captive (see 2 Corinthians 10:5b). He said to himself, “The Lord is my portion, therefore — I will hope in Him.”

Oh, that we too would approach life as Jeremiah did, or as Paul did. May we stand firm, trusting that God has our best interest at hand.

I recall a time when I faced bitter disappointment, I failed to understand why things happened as they did. I was confused. Like Jeremiah, I had to remind myself that God is good.

He has not abandoned me. He allows what is ultimately good for me. With that, I found peace and renewed hope.

I pray that you will adjust your approach to suffering and adversity, and like Jeremiah, reassure yourself of His love and mercy, new each day. Until next week, Anita

Onarecker, an Elgin resident, author of “Divine Appointment: Our Journey to the Bridge” and minister to women and adults, earned a Master of Christian Education from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in 2007.