What Should I Do During Times of Adversity?
You will prosper, if you take care to fulfill the statutes and judgments with which the Lord charged Moses concerning Israel. Be strong and of good courage; do not fear nor be dismayed. 1 Chronicles 22:13
David spoke wise words to his son Solomon before Solomon embarked on two assignments that were guaranteed to involve adversity – building the temple and ruling as king. David reminded him to follow the Lord’s commands and to be strong and courageous. Moses similarly advised Joshua to “be strong and of good courage” as Joshua was about to walk into a similar challenge rife with adversity – leading the nation of Israel into the Promised Land (Deuteronomy 31:7). Following Moses’ death the Lord spoke to Joshua and reiterated the command to “be strong and of good courage,” instructing him also to obey His Word and to remember that He would be with him wherever he went (Joshua 1:6-9).
Though you are not leading multitudes into the Promised Land or reigning as a king, you do understand adversity. The same directions given to Solomon and Joshua to prepare them for challenges are applicable to your in whatever difficulty you will face. You are to be strong and courageous and continue moving forward in the midst of your adversity because God is faithful and will be there with you. Your strength and courage are based on His power. You are to live according to the principles of God, relaying on His promises and resting in His power.
There are seasons when it is not easy to believe God is faithful. Friends fail you; your health deteriorates; your plans are thwarted; a fellow believer betrays you. In times like these, it is hard to harmonize God’s dealings with His vows of love and protection. But always remember His steadfast love and His faithfulness. Lamentations 3:24 says, “’The Lord is my portion’, says my soul, ‘therefore I hope in Him!’” You need to wait on Him. He will, in His own time, demonstrate that He has neither forsaken nor deceived you. Great is His faithfulness in the midst of adversity!
Lord, I thank You for another day to live for You and serve You. I do not know what difficulties I may encounter this day, but I do know that You have already gone before me. Today I will live by Your principles as stated in Your Word. Help me be strong and courageous today. Remind me constantly of Your steadfast love and enduring faithfulness. May You be glorified in my response to the challenges of this day. Amen
Thank you… Dr. Danny Wood, Birmingham, AL