By Harry Martinez

The experiences in life span a broad spectrum from that which is exciting, joyous and encouraging to that of pain, discouragement, grief and suffering. This is true for all humanity, though varying in the degree and frequency in which these occur. Because of the sin principle that pervades the human race, it appears that the negative experiences in life seem to increase and dominate society. Therefore, of paramount importance is the way in which individuals face the circumstances of life, whether they are good or bad.

Scripture speaks of times of hardship and of ease. For the individual who has placed their faith in Christ, there is the assurance that God is at work in their life to accomplish that which He desires … “for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure” (Phil 2:13 NKJV). This is a precious promise, though hard to recognize at times in the midst of adversity.

Yet, that Truth hovers as a canopy over the events of a Christian’s life. Jesus said … “I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly” (John 10:10 NKJV).

This was a promise that included one’s present life and its extension into the joys of the eternal state. He was not presenting a health, wealth and prosperity gospel for one’s present life, for He said … “In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world” (John 16:33b NKJV).

Jesus shared these words with His disciples who would experience imprisonment and/or execution for the sake of the gospel. It was essential that they be encouraged … “For we do not have a High Priest [Jesus Christ] who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted [tested] as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need” (Heb 4:15-16 NKJV).

Jesus’ teachings to His disciples were a reality in His own humanity. Prior to His arrest he prayed to the Father … “I have glorified You on the earth. I have finished the work which You have given Me to do. And now, O Father, glorify Me together with Yourself, with the glory which I had with You before the world was” (John 17:4-5 NKJV). The agony of the Cross was before Him where He would be judged for the sins of the whole world. He could sympathize with human frailty and yet have complete confidence in the Father’s plan for His life. Thus, He prayed … “Father, if it is Your will, take this cup away from Me; nevertheless not My will, but Yours, be done” (Luke 22:42 NKJV). It was for that hour that He had come into the world.

The writer to the Hebrews, knew that Israel would soon be conquered by the Romans. Therefore, he encouraged Jewish believers to … “lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us [unbelief], and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God” (Heb 12:1b-2 NKJV).

The Apostle James said… “My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him” (James 1:1-5 NKJV). No one would be exempt from adversity but His sufficiency was available to all who placed their faith in Him, for Jesus said … “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness” (2 Cor 12:9 NKJV).