Striving Through Adversity

Adversity is something that we all deal with in this life. While it is often unpleasant, climbing the rungs of adversity leads to a stronger and richer spiritual life. It is not easy to live life on life’s terms, nor is it easy facing the unpleasantness created by adverse situations. Yet none of us are immune to the difficulties in life. Often we simply want to put our head in the sand and pretend the issue(s) will go away. But as Children of God that is not what Jesus would have us do.

Jesus faced plenty of adversity in his life and of course as we all know eventually ended up hanging from a cross. As Christians Jesus tells us that we must all bear our crosses. That is not an easy directive. Yet the solutions lie all in how we approach the difficulties in life. If we view them as problems then chances are they will remain just that – problems. However if we look at adversity as a challenge then it becomes an opportunity to grow spiritually, as well as emotionally. Pain is often the bedrock that leads to spiritual growth and maturity.

Yet still, life can be most difficult and unfair. Jesus often told the disciples that they would be hated because of his name and their lives would be a struggle. But these average men who ran away the night Christ was crucified went on to become strong advocates for the faith. Against all odds they lived out the Gospel life, preaching and teaching the Good News wherever they went. Many suffered torture and death at the hands of their oppressors, but they persevered. They turned what was a frightening problem into a holy challenge. And they successfully met each obsticle and grew in their faith, casting out anxiety and worry.

Like the disciples we are called to persevere through adversity. We are called to live lives of faith and self-discipline. While this is most challenging, it is through our determination and faith that we become stronger. We not only overcome the difficulties we face, but we grow through the challenges. So remember this, whatever the problems are that plague us and bring us down, viewed as challenges we have the strength to persevere and overcome. Our lives may not end up where we intended but they will serve God and his purposes. Thus through a life of faith in Christ we will find true joy and peace.