Adversity

I believe God cares about how adverse circumstances affect our lives. The circumstances may be intense and painful at times but they do not have to overwhelm us or steal our peace and joy. In fact, anything that makes us need God is a blessing. Crisis can also provide an opportunity for us to deepen our intimacy with Christ.

To deepen intimacy with Christ during times of adversity I think we need to do the following: One, connect with the eyes of Jesus. We need to focus on Christ rather than the circumstances. During adversity the natural tendency is to fix our glaze on the outward circumstances- “the problem” and inwardly on self –“how can I fix it?” The best initial response to adversity is to find the eyes of Jesus.

Two, we need to connect with the heart of Jesus. Tell Him how it hurts and what you feel emotionally. Is there fear or uncertainty, depression or despair? Tell it to Jesus. The goal of relationship is intimacy. It is defined as “in-to-me-see.” Two hearts beating as one. Do not miss the opportunity to connect at this level with your Savior.

Three, connect with the hand of Jesus. Contentment flows out of knowing that God has provided everything we need for the present moment. That He is able to fulfill His purposes regardless of the circumstances and that you can trust His heart.

Four, connect with others. Just as we are called to be Christ for others so we must permit others to be the personification of Christ to us. Greater intimacy with Christ can be gained in relationship with one another and times of adversity can provide a unique opportunity for this to occur. Those are my thoughts. What say you?

Thanks for stopping by!
--------
Adrian