Growing in a Time of Crisis
How can we grow in grace, deal with sin in our lives, and prepare to be ready to meet Jesus while living in a time of crisis?
The story of Nicodemus approaching Jesus at night teaches us that the most important questions in life are about salvation. Christ cuts right to the heart and challenges him to be born again. Like a car with a broken down motor, we need a new engine, a new heart.
James the Apostle recommended a surprising response to troubles: “My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing” (James 1:2–4).
The Apostle Paul expressed a similar perspective on adversity: “We glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation works patience; and patience, experience; and experience, hope: and hope maketh no shame; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us. For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly” (Romans 5:3–6).
These men understood that in light of what Christ did for us by providing salvation, the difficulties we experience in this life take on new meaning. They are a means through which God works to accomplish His will in our lives: to shape us so that we reflect the character of Christ. (See Romans 8:28–30.) On the basis of this purpose, all adversity “works together” for our good and God’s glory.
All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work. – 2 Timothy 3:16-17
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