The Significance of Adversity in a Believer’s Life
Even before reading the article, take a minute and think about the people who faced adversity in the Bible: Daniel, David, Elijah, Joseph, Esther, Paul, and Christ.
The word “adversity” evokes unpleasant feelings, and most Christians might be skeptical to hear that such a word could lead to anything positive in their lives. However, a closer look at the Bible reveals that God has repeatedly used what we perceive as adverse to fulfill His plans and make us better. Does this mean that our loving Father must use suffering to improve us? Not necessarily. However, we must not forget that we, as humans, tend to label situations. To God, what we describe as suffering might simply be a necessary process.
Why Does God Allow Adversity in Life?
Like many other things, God often “takes the blame” for events He is not responsible for. The truth is, God does not cause or create adversity; He only takes advantage of such conditions to make us better. For example, it was not God who sent suffering into Job’s life, nor did He inspire Haman to target the Jews.
Where Does Adversity Come From?
While we often “manufacture” our own misery, adversity generally arises from Satanic influences and humans’ selfish tendencies. For instance, Joseph’s brothers were so consumed by jealousy that they sold him into slavery.
Adversity also comes to those who are serious believers. Paul reminded Timothy in 2 Timothy 3:12 that, “Indeed, all who desire to live godly lives in Christ Jesus will be persecuted” (Berean Standard Bible). Many times, we read such verses and assume they were meant for the people of that time. The truth is, any believer committed to maturing in the character of Christ will face persecution. See what other believers have to say regarding this scripture here and here.
Is It Possible to Avoid Adversity in Life?
Sadly, as long as we are in this world, we cannot avoid adversity. We may try to live at peace with everyone and consume the prosperity gospel all we want, but that will not guarantee a life of absolute tranquility.
Was Jesus a gossiper, slanderer, or rumor-monger? No, He was not, yet He faced the worst opposition. The only way to avoid adversity as a believer is by living as “lukewarm water.” But let no one deceive you into thinking there is something you can do to entirely prevent adversity. Instead, adopt the mindset of a warrior. Never plead with your persecutors or adversaries, no matter their power.
Let me give you an illustration. As I write this article, it is 12:54 a.m. here in Nairobi, Kenya. There is no electricity in the house due to a blackout. Next to my laptop is a candle. A few minutes ago, I noticed that the candle is radiating light throughout the entire room. It is a small object, but it does not give in to the darkness. Similarly, we should have a mindset that remains unshaken by the forces of darkness when adversity comes.
What Is the Purpose of Adversity in a Christian’s Life?
Adversity, however undesirable it may seem, serves numerous purposes in a believer’s life:
- Adversity Exposes Our Vulnerabilities and Character Flaws
It is easy to pretend we love the Lord or are good Christians while in our comfort zones. However, adversity reveals our true selves. When we face challenges, our reactions, attitudes, and emotions can expose areas of weakness, flaws in our character, or unaddressed insecurities.- Peter considered himself strong enough to die with Christ, yet he denied Him three times (Matthew 26:69–75).
- Job, despite his zeal for God, could not control his words when trouble came (Job 1:4–7).
- Adversity Teaches Us Dependence on God
Once our inadequacies are exposed, we realize that only God can empower or have mercy on us.- Elijah realized his piety was insufficient when he became frustrated by the people’s idolatry. Yet God strengthened him and fed him (1 Kings 19:5–8).
- Adversity Strengthens Our Faith
Adversity allows us to encounter God in ways that solidify our faith.- When Elijah prayed in frustration, God strengthened him, enabling him to travel forty days without additional food (1 Kings 19:8).
- Esther prayed with Mordecai when faced with genocide, and their strengthened faith culminated in the downfall of their oppressor.
- Adversity Is a Conveyor Belt for God’s Purpose
Although God does not conspire with Satan or humans to create adversity, He uses it to fulfill His plans for our lives.- Joseph’s dream was fulfilled in the same land where he was sold into slavery.
- Paul’s suffering became the channel through which God revealed His salvation plan to the Gentiles.
How Should a Christian Respond to Adversity?
- See Adversity as Necessary for Growth
James 1:2–4 reminds us that trials are necessary for developing our faith. No biblical character endured trials and came out worse.- Joseph did not harbor bitterness despite his brothers’ betrayal.
- David did not attempt to kill Saul, even when he had the chance. Instead, he grew spiritually during the trials, going to the extent of writing as many are 75 psalms.
- Adversity is like fire, peeling away weak areas of our character.
- Remember That Adversity Cannot Destroy Us
Adversity does not destroy us because God exercises His sovereignty over all circumstances.- The lions in Daniel’s den did not lose their appetite; rather, God sent an angel to shut their mouths (Daniel 6:22).
- Saul’s soldiers failed to capture David because God intervened.
- Trust That Adversity Cannot Hinder God’s Plan
No adversity can sabotage or undermine God’s sovereign plans. Daniel was thrown into the lions’ den but remained unharmed because God had a divine purpose for his life. Similarly, we should rest in the assurance that hardships cannot derail God’s plan for us.
Prayer to Go Through Adversity
Heavenly Father,
I come to You with a heart weighed down by challenges and trials. In this season of adversity, I feel overwhelmed, but I know that You are my refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble (Psalm 46:1). I lift my eyes to You, trusting that You are the source of my hope and the anchor of my soul.
Lord, help me to trust in Your plan, even when I do not understand it. Your thoughts are higher than my thoughts, and Your ways are greater than my ways (Isaiah 55:8–9). Give me the faith to believe that You are working all things together for my good, even in the midst of hardship (Romans 8:28).
Strengthen my heart, Lord, and give me the courage to face each day with confidence in Your promises. When I feel weak, remind me that Your grace is sufficient and that Your power is made perfect in my weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9). Teach me to rely on You completely and to seek You in prayer and Your Word for guidance and peace.
Help me to grow through this season of adversity. Refine my character, deepen my faith, and mold me into the person You have called me to be. Let this trial not defeat me, but instead strengthen me so that I may emerge with a testimony of Your goodness and faithfulness.
Lord, protect me from discouragement and fear. Fill me with Your peace that surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:6–7) and remind me that I am never alone, for You have promised never to leave me nor forsake me (Deuteronomy 31:6).
I surrender my struggles to You, knowing that You hold my life in Your hands. Help me to rest in Your presence and trust in Your timing. I declare that You are my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer (Psalm 18:2).
Thank You, Lord, for being my refuge in times of trouble. I praise You for the victory You are bringing, even if I cannot yet see it. May Your will be done in my life, and may Your name be glorified through this trial.
In Jesus’ name, I pray,
Amen.
