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Written by Dave Boller for “Working for Christ” @ http://work4christ.wordpress.com

Original post @ http://work4christ.wordpress.com/2013/06/

LIVING WITH ADVERSITY!
June 26, 2013

“He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit He prunes so that it will be even more fruitful.” (John 15:2, NIV)

King David was one of Israel’s greatest kings. As he prepared for his “promotion”, his life was filled with adversity. It may have seemed really strange to him, since his relationship to the king (Saul) began with two very positive events – his place as a court attendant and his slaying of Goliath. Yet the relationship was filled with hardship. Even so, David stuck it out until it finally paid off!

Similarly, when we rely on Jesus to lead us in the direction He would like our lives to go, the hardship we experience can become our helper. Hardships are an unavoidable part of following Christ, like it or not. When Christ finds something in us that isn’t bearing fruit, He will take it away. Likewise, when we are living for Him and bringing glory to the Father, He will continue to develop us in ways that will bring Him the honor and glory that He deserves.

Early in my career, I had jobs that I really didn’t enjoy. Yet God placed me there to gain experience. In some cases that experience turned out to be spiritual and not job related at all. In other situations, God was teaching me to be patient and to accept His leading. Looking back, I’m glad I gave in to God – that’s not always easy. The reward comes when God’s compassionate, yet firm determination, develops us toward spiritual, moral, and mental maturity.

When Christ asserts His Lordship by allowing adversity in our lives, how will we respond? David was talented and capable from the beginning, but he couldn’t become king until he’d gained more life experience. He may have thought he was ready, but God was preparing him. He followed the Lord and waited for his time to arrive. Through it all, God’s Word and God’s ways became more and more alive in his heart. He accepted Christ’s leading, even with all the adversity, and trusted God with His future. May we react likewise?

Enjoy your day, “Working for Christ”!

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I Want to Live the Victorious Christian Life: Signed: Tired of Living in Defeat! (jimkilgoreministries.wordpress.com)
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The Provisions Of God (inspirationalchristiansfortoday.com)