What God Taught Me in Hard Times
What God Taught Me in Hard Times
Growing up as a PK (preacher’s kid) and now being in ministry of one type or another for 20 years, there are many things I have learned. One of which is when people serve the Lord, there will always be opposition.
I will admit as a young person this really rattled me. Why would God allow the push back and the pain for obeying Him?
God's Word taught me that all things work together for good, (Romans 8:28) but life didn't seem to be telling me that. I wrestled with this paradox for years.
Then, one day, in the midst of a deep wound, God finally got through to me.
I will never forget that moment, sitting on my bed, sobbing in the dark, and asking God why.
Then, it happened. Right there, in the midst of a time when it seemed like my faith had failed, God spoke these words to my heart, “Don’t let what is intended to refine you, define you.”
I am sure He had spoken that truth many times before that moment, but this time I heard Him, and His message, though gentle and reassuring, was loud and clear.
Here's what I learned.
For the gold to be purified, the refiner's fire must be hot. It is repetitive. It is a process. And yet, it is every bit worth it. Why? Because the fire has purpose. In the end, the gold is not consumed. It shines brighter and is far more valuable. It is not defined by the fire, it is refined by it.
God intended the opposition to do the same thing for me–to refine me, to add value to my character. And now, instead of asking Him why, I find myself thanking Him for another “golden opposition.”
In reality, you don't have to be in full-time ministry to find opposition. In fact, I am fairly certain that everyone has experienced it at some point.
This leaves me wondering, what lessons have you learned through opposition. How has God used the fire to refine you?
I'd love to hear your story. And hope you will share it with me by email, or better yet, let's video chat over a cup of coffee (or tea).
I can't wait to celebrate the gold God has brought in your life.
By Lora Campbell, One Mission Kids