Remember Jesus’s words amid adversity—like a parent’s advice before you venture out into the real world for the first time. When a young adult goes out into the world for the first time, their parents are no longer there, and they have to learn how to depend on the Lord themselves. Unfortunately, not everyone in the world is a believer in Jesus and is filled with the fruits of the Spirit. The day before Jesus was crucified, He called His disciples together to give them insight into what they would face in the future.
John 16:1I have told you these things so that you won’t abandon your faith. 2 For you will be expelled from the synagogues, and the time is coming when those who kill you will think they are doing a holy service for God. 3 This is because they have never known the Father or me. 4 Yes, I’m telling you these things now, so that when they happen, you will remember my warning. I didn’t tell you earlier because I was going to be with you for a while longer. [1] Jesus had been with them for three years, and now they were entering a different season. I can only imagine how difficult it was to hear those words.
Without Jesus, Will There Be Joy in Ministry?
Reflecting on Jesus’ words would have given the disciples a new sense of urgency as they looked forward to the coming of the Holy Spirit. Jesus painted a realistic picture for the disciples, not sugarcoating what lay ahead of them. There would still be joy in being a disciple, but it’s a joy that the world wouldn’t understand.
During challenging times, we often experience the Lord’s joy more profoundly than ever before. This might be difficult for some to accept. When trouble arises, it’s common to want a quick solution. A sudden trial can sometimes leave us feeling hopeless and wondering if we’ve made a mistake. But remember, going through adversity is an essential part of our Christian journey, helping us grow and deepen our faith.
Being Faithful Amidst Adversity
Paul was imprisoned for his faith and was experiencing the hardship that Jesus told the disciples about, yet he persevered and thrived. 2 Timothy 2:9 And because I preach this Good News, I am suffering and have been chained like a criminal. But the word of God cannot be chained. 10 So I am willing to endure anything if it will bring salvation and eternal glory in Christ Jesus to those God has chosen. [2]
Only when we have the Holy Spirit working in us and reflect on Jesus’ words do we have the perspective that Paul had. One day, like Paul, we will step into eternity and see Jesus face to face. No matter what challenges we face as believers, they will be worth it to build the Kingdom of God. Think of the people around you that you can impact for the Kingdom. This spirit is reflected in the dying words of William Borden, who gave his life for Jesus on the mission field: “No reserve; no retreat; no regrets.”[3] Remember Jesus’ words amid adversity. To learn more, listen here:
https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/when-the-road-gets-hard
[1,2] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Tyndale House Publishers.