The Value of Adversity

by | Posted April 26th at 2:33pm

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid. John 14:27

It is beneficial for us to have occasional trials and troubles. Times of adversity often remind us that we are on probation here on earth and ought not to hope in any worldly thing. (Acts 14:22; 2 Corinthians 6:4; 2 Thessalonians 1:4; Revelation 2:3)

It often helps build virtuous character which needs strengthening when we endure contradiction, especially if misjudged by men when we do well and mean well. With the Lord’s help, such struggles help us to be humble shielding us from vainglorious self-absorption. Recall how the Lord did not seek His own glory, yet His Father proclaimed his glory during the transfiguration, at the cross, at his resurrection, and in heaven. (John 8:50, Luke 9:35, 23:44-48; Luke 24:26; 1 Peter 3:22)

When by all outward appearances, men give us no credit, when they do not think well of us, we are more inclined to seek God Who sees our hearts. Wisely rooted and firmly planted in relationship with God, there is little need for the consolations of men, “For the eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to give strong support to those whose heart is blameless toward him.” Moreover, he knows our needs in every situation. (Psalm 139: 1-4; Matthew 6:8)

When a man of goodwill is afflicted, tempted, and tormented by evil thoughts, he realizes clearly that his greatest need is devotion to and the sustaining of God’s comforting Spirit, without Whom he can do no good. (John 15:5; James 4:7-8; 1 Corinthians 10:13)

Saddened by miseries and sufferings, despairing in our laments, we often pray more earnestly, listen more intently for guidances. If severely pressed, one may grow weary of life’s wrestle with adversity, yet press forward knowing the Lord’s reward: our final immortal renewal when we will be with Christ. (Romans 5:3; Psalm 13:1; Hebrews 11:10, 16; 13:14; Philippians 1:23)

Adversity works humility into our mindset when we understand fully that perfect security and complete peace is not of this world here on earth. (John 14:27; 1 Peter 2:19; 2 Peter 3:11)

Revised Version by Glen Jackman of Chapter 12: The Value of Adversity, Thomas à Kempis. (1996). The Imitation of Christ (p. 19). Oak Harbor, WA: Logos Research Systems.

Article posted by Glen R. Jackman, founder of GraceProclaimed.org

Glen has optimized his eldership role to teach the full scope of the New Covenant of Jesus Christ without boundaries.
You can read his testimony.