Being faithful during life’s trials can be a time of testing for anyone. During trials, we wonder if God has forgotten about us or why He doesn’t answer our prayers. As our roots of faith grow deeper, we begin to understand from God’s word that life’s difficulties, although not welcomed, can be great teachers.
Zechariah, a Jewish priest, and his wife, Elizabeth, were unable to have children and were now past that stage in their lives. Back then, a woman’s worth was judged mainly by her ability to have children. Not having children often brought personal struggles and public shame. Like many challenges in life, they can either draw us closer to God or lead us to become angry at Him.
Zechariah and Elizabeth choose to remain faithful, serving as an excellent example for us as we face life’s storms. We gain insight into the faith life of this couple as they navigated life’s journey. Luke 1:6 Zechariah and Elizabeth were righteous in God’s eyes, careful to obey all of the Lord’s commandments and regulations. 7 They had no children because Elizabeth was unable to conceive, and they were both very old. [1]
Trials Refine Us
Those who study trees are called arborists. They say that prolonged exposure to wind and weather can cause trees to develop deeper and stronger root systems, as the roots grow to help the tree stay stable against natural forces. Just as wind and weather transform a tree, the storms of life also change us. James 1: 2 Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. 3 For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. 4 So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing. [2]
After Zechariah and Elizabeth were married, they probably thought it would not be long before they had a house full of children. As years went by, those dreams and prayers seemed to go unanswered. To fill the void, it appears they drew closer to the Lord and developed their relationship with Him. Little did they know that God in His infinite wisdom was preparing them to become parents later in life. This child would grow up to be the forerunner of the Messiah. We know him in the Scriptures as John the Baptist.
Being Faithful is a Choice
Being faithful to the Lord is a choice regardless of our circumstances, and there is nothing wrong with asking God for help when the road becomes difficult. There is something about meditating on God’s word that addresses life’s troubles and helps us gain perspective. If you are struggling, may the following verses encourage you!
Psalm 56:3 But when I am afraid, I will put my trust in you. [3] Isaiah 43:2When you go through deep waters, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown. When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; he flames will not consume you. [4]
Remember, the Lord loves you and is always thinking about you because you are His prized possession. To learn more about being faithful during trials, listen here:
https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/the-gift-of-children
[1-4] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Tyndale House Publishers.