Stress and Trials in Life
Romans 5:3-5 and James 1:2-4
It seems like we are living in a time of increased stress right now. We find the world at war, gas prices are skyrocketing, and the cost of providing basic needs for our families seems overwhelming. Our government seems to be at war with itself, undermining what has been a source of stability and security in the past. How should we respond to the turmoil we are living through?
Both Paul and James teach us to do something that on the surface seems ridiculous – rejoice! I must admit that other emotions come more naturally during times like this. Paul wrote, “Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.” (Romans 5:3-5). James wrote, “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” (James 1:2-4). It reminds me of Peter and John who were called before the council. After they had testified to the truth, they were beaten, and as they left the council, it says that they were “rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer dishonor for the name.” All of them recognized that trials have purpose; helping us become more and more like our Savior.
Can I say that we are weird people? In Sunday School this past Sunday, we talked about Paul hoping that the Jews would become jealous of the Gentiles who accepted the gospel. The horrendous treatment of Christians did not seem to temper their joy. In fact, in the presence of persecution, the church flourishes. It makes no sense. I think I may understand what makes us such weird people – we know how the story ends – we win!! This past week, I finished my first read through the Bible. As I read through the last few chapters of Revelation, I felt tears coming to my eyes. Those three chapters point to the fulfillment of our hope.
In my first career I was a warrior. I trained to employ weapons of mass destruction that would kill many, many people if I ever had to execute my mission. Although I accepted my call to be a warrior, I hate war! Most warriors do.
One of my favorite verses in Scripture is Isaiah 2:4, “He will judge between the nations and will settle disputes for many peoples. They will beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks. Nation will not take up sword against nation, nor will they train for war anymore.” Revelation 21:4 also promises that “He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” It is the strong promises of God that allow us to appear strange to the world around us when times become difficult. I remember the Jesus Freak movement of the 60s and 70s and those who shared the gospel on my campus. They seemed happy and at peace, when the rest of us got wrapped up in the stress and trials of those days. While I don’t want to let my hair grow long and dress like a hippie, I want to exude the joy they have communicated.
By the way, I am still a warrior, but the war is very different. Like you, I fight a spiritual war every day of my life. The weapons are different, and so is my commander. My commander is perfect, holy, and the greatest planner of all time. Paul identified my weapons in Eph. 6:14-17, “Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.” Read God’s Word with a focus on finding His incredible promises.
Philippians 4:6 says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” Prayer is an amazing weapon in countering anxiety. Since we are strange people, let our prayers also be a little different. In recent days I have been praying for the salvation of the Iranian leaders and the people in Iran, Israel, Oman, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Hezbollah, and any other potential enemies and allies that come to mind. Jesus said, “Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you.” (Luke 6:27). Pray for those making decisions on both sides of the war, and those trying to manage the economy and attempting to protect us. Focus on the names of God, such as Jehovah Jireh (The Lord who provides) and Jehovah Shalom (The Lord our Peace). Never lose sight of the reality that God is still on his throne and loves you with an infinite love. When I do these things, the problems of this world come into perspective, and I find it difficult to remain anxious in the face of stress and trials. Rejoice, my friends!!
Blessings,
Pastor Doug Jones