AVAAT

A VERSE AT A TIME

TOPIC: SEE OPPORTUNITIES IN ADVERSITY

TEXT: ROMANS 8:28-32

KEY VERSE: We are assured and know that [God being a partner in their labor] all things work together and are [fitting into a plan] for good to and for those who love God and are called according to [His] design and purpose. ROMANS 8:28(AMPC)

Living with a purposeful mindset enables us to identify opportunities amid adversity. Our purpose, as ordained by God, determines the quality of our being and the design of our vessel. A potter utilizes clay to create various jars and pots, but the process differs from that of a goldsmith. The clay is shaped and fired in a kiln to harden and make it fire-resistant. Depending on its intended use, the potter may decorate it according to his preference. God decorates our lives materially according to our assignment.

After all, the man who makes the pots has the right to use the clay as he wishes and to make two pots from the same lump of clay, one for special occasions and the other for ordinary use.Romans 9:21(GNT)

Clay and gold are natural resources but undergo different transformation processes. Similarly, the experiences of believers differ from one another. The work of a goldsmith is different from that of a potter. The goldsmith uses high temperatures to melt the gold and refine it. He also introduces chemicals that remove other metals from the gold until it’s in its purest form. All this happens in a furnace. As believers, we may face seasons of intense persecution and separation, and the trials we face may seem to destroy us. However, God uses these situations to work out his divine purposes in us.

Be glad about this, even though it may now be necessary for you to be sad for a while because of the many kinds of trials you suffer.   Their purpose is to prove that your faith is genuine. Even gold, which can be destroyed, is tested by fire, and so your faith, which is much more precious than gold, must also be tested so that it may endure. Then, you will receive praise and glory and honor on the Day when Jesus Christ is revealed. 1 Peter 1:6-7(GNT)

My friends, consider yourselves fortunate when all kinds of trials come your way,  for you know that when your faith succeeds in facing such trials, the result is the ability to endure. Make sure that your endurance carries you all the way without failing so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. James 1:2-4(GNT)

Joseph, David, and Esther have all experienced seasons of loss, pain, and separation. However, they emerged from those seasons, purified and prepared for the greater good that God had planned for their lives. They viewed their situations as opportunities for growth, not setbacks, because of their knowledge and relationship with God. Adversity comes for a purpose: to a believer, to prove the genuineness of their faith and to build their capacity. Resilience, self-control, and prudence are character traits formed out of adversity.

We have small troubles for a while now, but these trou les are helping us gain an eternal glory. That eternal glory is much greater than our troubles. 2 Corinthians 4:17(ERV)

Joseph realized later in life that God had orchestrated everything he had been through for the good of his family. The dreams that God had given him eventually became a reality as he embraced God’s process and pathway. Your purpose is so magnificent that it outweighs any momentary pain you may experience. David served his generation because he waited and endured affliction under King Saul. When a storm and shipwreck landed Paul on the island of Malta, it allowed the Barbarians to hear the gospel and for many sick people to be healed. Think of what God is working out instead of the inconvenience you feel. God has great plans that require our partnership; therefore, we must trust Him. (Proverbs 3:5-8; Acts 28:1-10)

It is true that you planned to do something bad to me. But really, God was planning good things. God’s plan was to use me to save the lives of many people. And that is what happened. Genesis 50:20(ERV)

Reflection Questions

1. What recent adversity have you faced? 

2. How did it make you feel?

3. What did you learn about God during that time? 

4. Can you see the opportunities that season provided?

Photo by Massimiliano Morosinotto on Unsp