Hardships

There are two sources of hardships and a different response, outlined in God's Word, to each source.

Some hardships come as a result of our own sins, and Hebrews 12 instructs us how to respond to hardships from that source.

"Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as sons. For what son is not disciplined by his father?" ~ Hebrews 12:7

"No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it." ~ Hebrews 12:11

Last night, I was not where I should have been, and I experienced God's discipline.

Other hardships come as a result of the sins of others or some other source, and Romans 5 and James 1 instruct us how to respond to that source, of which Job is a prime example.

"Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us." ~ Romans 5:3-5


"Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything." ~ James 1:2-4

Sunday afternoon, I experienced the second type of hardship.

Many times, I think Americans face the first form and mistake it for the second. We are not called to rejoice in the trials which come as a result of our sin but to rejoice in the trials which come as a result of our obedience to God.

How do we determine the source of the hardship?

In the first case, a close follower of Christ will sense the disconnection from God as a result of sin and know discipline is in store.

In the second case, a close follower of Christ will sense the sweet fellowship and peace of God as a result of obedience despite whatever outward circumstances may arise.

Every believer should seek to suffer for obedience to Christ rather than for sin:

"If you suffer, it should not be as a murderer or thief or any other kind of criminal, or even as a meddler. However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name." ~ 1 Peter 4:15-16

"So then,

those who suffer according to God's will

should commit themselves to their faithful Creator

and continue to do good."

~ 1 Peter 4:19 ~