We don’t usually see the process of how our favorite things are made. However, every day we use the finished products. Our favorite fragrance was extracted, pressed and distilled. That morning glass of orange juice was picked and squeezed. Your favorite shirt was cut, dyed and stitched. Using the finished product is easy but imagine the process all of those things went through so that we could have the best.
It’s no different when it comes to our salvation. In fact, the process you are going through today seems very similar to that of the products you read about above. You are being pressed from all angles and squeezed to your breaking point. It seems that the closer you get to God, the harder the problems push back. People who were once friends have turned their back on you, family members criticize your faith. It is as though the world is fighting against you. This is, in fact, a great sign.
“How?” You may ask? Well take a look at this verse:
“Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ’s sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy.” 1 Peter 4:12-13
Don’t be shocked when things begin to go wrong. It is a part of your journey of faith. As you drift away from this world, a spiritual retaliation happens in an attempt to stop you from moving forward in your faith. However, everything that you go through will be worth it because at the end of the day God will be with you through it all. Just as that sweet glass of orange juice or that beautiful fragrance, your finished product will be great.
Am I saying that we should accept to live a miserable life that is full of problems? Not at all! We must fight through faith, but fight knowing who the real enemy is and trusting the process!
May the God of the Bible bless you!
Bishop Bira Joshua
