Handling Adversity

3 Tips for a Christian in Adversity:

1.) Are you sick (cancer, flu or disease)?

Romans 8:18
For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.

-Remember that this life is short and full of pain, but if you are saved, the suffering here cannot compare to the glory which is to come in our heavenly bodies.

2.) Are you angry? Not just mad, but really irritated and holding a grudge? Are you unsure of how you will ever get over the situation and forgive that person or people? What if they aren't even sorry?

Romans 5:8
But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.

Ephesians 4:32
And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.

- It's super IMPORTANT to remember that Christ died for us as sinners, not already perfected in the blood saints. God forgives us based on Christ. The pattern of this forgiveness is to forgive, even when they do not deserve it.

3.) Are you in need? Do you feel like bills keep coming and the bad news too? Do you feel trapped?

Philippians 4:11-13
Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.  I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need.  I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.

- Everyone seems to know verse 13, but never consider the context when boisterously reciting it to get the psyched up for a sporting event. We have the ability, in Christ, to be content in every situation. He is our satisfaction. Jesus is more than enough. Work hard, serve God, and be thankful in all things. Even if it doesn't get better, refer to point number 1.