Overcoming Adversity: Finding God's Hidden Treasures
Life's greatest rewards often lie behind the walls of our greatest challenges. God doesn't hide blessings from us, but rather keeps them for us behind obstacles that require faith and perseverance to overcome.
Why Do People Avoid Facing Adversity?
Many avoid confronting difficult situations because:
It requires too much work
It demands emotional investment
It takes courage
It means telling certain influences in our lives to "be quiet"
The Biblical Pattern of Overcoming
Throughout scripture, we see examples of those who faced adversity to receive God's promises:
Abraham left his homeland to receive God's blessing
Moses survived against impossible odds to lead Israel
Daniel endured the lions' den
Jesus endured the cross for our salvation
What Does It Take to Break Through Adversity?
Success behind the wall of adversity requires:
Perseverance
Courage and faith
Wisdom
Prayer
Help from others
A changed mindset
The Importance of Mindset Change
God's thoughts and ways are higher than ours (Isaiah 55:8-9). We must be transformed by renewing our minds (Romans 12:1-2) and stop using "that's just how I am" as an excuse. Real transformation requires changing our thinking patterns.
Why This Matters for God's Kingdom
As children of God, we're part of the "family business" of saving souls. We can't sit idly by - we must overcome our personal obstacles to be effective in advancing God's kingdom. Whether through financial breakthrough, emotional healing, or other victories, our personal growth enables us to better serve others.
Life Application
This week, identify one "wall of adversity" you've been avoiding. Ask yourself:
What blessing might God have waiting behind this challenge?
What excuse have I been using to avoid facing this?
How could overcoming this challenge help advance God's kingdom?
Take one concrete step toward facing that challenge, remembering you're not just doing it for yourself, but for God's greater purpose.
Questions for Reflection:
What "wall" has God been asking you to face?
How might your breakthrough help others?
What mindset change do you need to make first?