It's hard in our current economic climate and "news" environment not to be consumed by the adversity that so many are facing. The things we see can be a powerful influence if we allow them to be. But adversity also weeds out fair weather friends and helps put our priorities back in focus. Adversity is not something we desire, but it also is something that is common to mankind. Handling it properly is critical to achieving our destiny.
There are some real keys to not just surviving adversity, but to thriving in the midst of adversity. First, and foremost, is focus. Your focus will set your direction.
When we look at what it takes to overcome adversity, I think we would be remiss if we didn't address the need to surround ourselves with those who encourage us rather than enable us through commiseration. We have lot's of little adages we could quote that shows even those without Christ recognize this.
There are some real keys to not just surviving adversity, but to thriving in the midst of adversity. First, and foremost, is focus. Your focus will set your direction.
Keep your eyes on Jesus, who both began and finished this race we’re in. Study how He did it. Because He never lost sight of where He was headed—that exhilarating finish in and with God—He could put up with anything along the way: Cross, shame, whatever. And now He’s there, in the place of honor, right alongside God. When you find yourselves flagging in your faith, go over that story again, item by item, that long litany of hostility He plowed through. That will shoot adrenaline into your souls! (Hebrews 12:2-3 ~ The Message)We need, too, to always remember that faith, the force that allows us to put more stock in the unseen than we do in the seen, is the product of our receiving anointed impartation of the Word of God regarding our circumstance. (Rom. 10:17) A battle with sickness and disease demands a Word for healing. A war against poverty requires a Word on prosperity. And standing in the face of temptation, tests and trials is the time we need to hear a Word on faithfulness. It is not enough to study, you need to let those who have been victorious and overcome your kind of adversity speak into your life.
When we look at what it takes to overcome adversity, I think we would be remiss if we didn't address the need to surround ourselves with those who encourage us rather than enable us through commiseration. We have lot's of little adages we could quote that shows even those without Christ recognize this.
23 Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful. 24 And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, 25 not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching. (Heb 10:23-25 ~ NKJV)
Having trouble, pray, snuggle up to the Father's heart and let Him encourage you to the place where you are again free from adversity. Give His Word place, the Word that produces life, health, and prosperity for you. And through it all, get yourself in fellowship with those who will champion your success, who will cheer you on to victory. Adversity will come, but you can overcome and be an example to others around you how its done.
