Articles
Look on the Bright Side
“For we do not have a high priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses…” (Heb. 4:15)
A common phrase you may hear from people, “You couldn’t possibly understand what I am going through.” Many face difficult circumstances, and it seems that in some situations, that trying to make the most of it appears impossible. What can one say to someone when life continues to present obstacles and throw curveball after curveball? A knee-jerk reaction for a Christian may be to respond in the manner, “Well, God causes all things to work together for good” (Rom. 8:28). Depending on the situation, it may not be conducive to use such words. Sometimes saying nothing and just listening is far more effective.
Looking at how individuals in the Scriptures handled difficult and sometimes life-threatening events can aid our ability to face the challenges of this life. It should be comforting when we realize that someone else has faced the same or similar hardships that we have encountered. Thank the Lord that He has provided numerous examples of men and women who have faced tragedy and risen above such difficulties.
Rahab was a woman of the night from the city of Jericho (cf. Josh. 2:1ff). She probably had no idea how her life would be altered one day when two spies of Israel came upon her doorstep. She was aware of what God had accomplished in the land of Egypt (Josh 2:10). Understanding that the city faced certain destruction and that she and her family’s lives were at stake, she did what she needed to do to save them. For her bravery, her fear of the Lord, she and the lives of her loved ones were spared (cf. Josh. 6:22ff). Moreover, this woman is among the paragons of faith (cf. Heb. 11:30f). She was able to make the best out of a difficult situation.
Jonah made a foolish decision in thinking that he could somehow run away from the Lord (cf. Jonah 1:3ff). The Lord’s will cannot be thwarted. God could have taken the life of this disobedient man, but He is gracious and merciful (cf. Psa. 145:8). He provided an unusual method for Jonah to be rescued and give him time to reflect upon his poor choice. Only the Lord could do something like cause a great fish to shelter Jonah for three days and nights (Jonah 1:17). This gave him sufficient time to realize his wrongdoing and pray for forgiveness (cf. Jonah 2:1ff).
The Apostle Paul needed to be blinded to receive his sight (cf. Acts 9:1ff). When the Lord provided Paul with spiritual clarity, then he was able to endure the sufferings that would come his way (cf. 2 Cor. 11:23ff). This did not come naturally but had to be learned (cf. Phil. 4:11ff). For his efforts, this man could have the faith that there was a crown of righteousness waiting for him (cf. 2 Tim. 4:6ff).
Jesus is our ultimate example of looking at a situation and handling it most constructively. At His most difficult hour, Jesus went to the Father in prayer (cf. Lk. 22:41ff). The writer of Hebrews articulates about the Lord, “Although He was a Son, He learned obedience from the things which He suffered” (Heb. 5:8). The life of Christ demonstrates for us how we need to address the direst of life’s hurdles.
It may be easy to look at the individuals in the Bible, and conclude that their circumstances are different than mine. Or possibly to conclude, “I don’t see God working in my life because things seem to always end up for the worst.” We should never minimize the suffering of people; rather, we should do our best to be there for support. One of our most important duties is to be an encourager. Stress the importance of prayer during times of sorrow, joy, and everything else in between. Let us not pretend that we have all the answers to every problem. May we have the patience and compassion for those that are struggling with their faith and doubts.
