Adversity Has An End

Job 42

"God will not place on you more than you can bare." That phase has been around as long as breathe has been in this life. The interpretation of it may vary from person to person. The essence of the statement remains the same - adversity has an end.

I have spent some pain shaking days in a neighboring state to New York City. It has been so accessible by public transportation. Going through difficulties and working through it all has been challenging. The challenge was made least cumbersome by the ways and means to retreat and rekindle. A debt of gratitude is due to the members of Metropolitan Community United Methodist Church, who support their pastor in days of pain. There will be more adversity to face, before the complete turn around. This I have been assured of going through the preparation time. The difference having been on retreat is that of being ready now.

It took days of going back to the basics with limited cell phone use or computer access. It took praying through the day and some sleepless nights. Stepping away from the burden that holds me down was the best part of the treatment plan. Internal debates were welcomed. Glances at the past were permissible. Visions of the future built confidence.

Excellent days shall come. One day the adversity shall cease. Until that day my run on song of praise shall be: "My Soul Has Been Anchored In The Lord." What are you taking for the pain in your life? What have you grounded your faith in during the storms of life? I recommend taking time to return on earth to our Lord, before going eternally to God. Try the basics of stealing away to converse with the Lord.

Surely the adversary will remain active during such time. It may even appear that evil is winning. Yet, we know the ending of the story, when our trust is in the God of glory. Trust in the restoration power of our Lord. God is more than able. The Lord is our promise keeper. When all has failed and the enemy encamps against us, turn around and seek the face of God. "God is watching us."

During three weeks of constant praying, I uttered to myself the words of 2 Chronicles 7:14: "If my people, who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven, forgive their sins, and heal their land." The recipe in times of facing adversity has within it a repentance in daily prayer to the God of restoration. When we follow the recipe, we know excellent days shall come.

Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy and heal us. Amen.