Finding Hope in a World of Adversity: A Message for the Hurting and Skeptics

As skeptics or wounded and hurting, you may think that the existence of evil, hardship and all forms of adversity in the world proves that God doesn't exist. But what if I told you that God's presence is not disproved by evil, but rather, He is the only one who can provide hope and redemption in the midst of it?

In John 16:33, Jesus says, "In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." This acknowledges the reality of hardship but also offers a promise of hope and victory through faith in Him.

Ellen G. White, a renowned Christian author, writes, "God did not create evil, but He permits it to exist, that He may demonstrate His power to overcome it" (The Great Controversy, p. 513).

The Bible doesn't shy away from the existence of evil. In fact, it addresses it head-on, explaining that sin entered the world through human choice (Genesis 3) and that God's grace and redemption are available through Jesus Christ (Romans 5:12-19).

The existence of evil is not a proof that God does not exist, but a proof that we need Him. If a good God does not exist, evil also does not exist, but if evil exist, then a good God does exist.

But how can a loving God exist in a world filled with suffering? The prophet Habakkuk asked the same question (Habakkuk 1:2-4), but ultimately trusted in God's sovereignty and justice.

God's presence is not about eliminating evil, but about providing a way to overcome it. Through faith in Him, we can find peace in the darkest valleys (Psalm 23:4), hope in the midstof suffering (Romans 5:3-5), and redemption from the evil that surrounds us (Revelation 21:4).

As a Christian author, Philip Yancey, writes, "Faith is not a guarantee of a trouble-free life, but a guarantee of a trouble-free heart" (Where Is God When It Hurts? p. 25).

His-Legate - 2Cor. 5:20
#theworldneedtheWORD

 

Anime Dark Side Exposed pt1

 

#44 FEAR NOT… Overcoming Fear and Discouragement

Strength and Courage: The instruction to "be strong and courageous" emphasizes the importance of facing challenges with determination and bravery. This teaches the moral lesson that strength of character and courage are essential qualities for navigating difficult circumstances.

Overcoming Fear and Discouragement: The admonition not to be afraid or discouraged in the face of a formidable adversary like the king of Assyria and his vast army underscores the importance of overcoming negative emotions that can hinder progress. This teaches the moral lesson of maintaining faith and confidence in God's power and protection, even in the face of daunting challenges.

Trust in Divine Providence: By affirming that there is a greater power with the people of Judah than with the king of Assyria, the verse highlights the importance of trusting in God's providence and sovereignty. This teaches the moral lesson of reliance on divine assistance and assurance that God is capable of intervening on behalf of His people.

Overall, this verse encourages strength, courage, and trust in God's power and providence, providing moral guidance for facing adversity with resilience and faith.



From: His-Legate - 2Cor. 5:20
#theworldneedtheWORD

#43 FEAR NOT… Reliance on Divine Assistance

 

Trusting in God's Sovereignty: The verse reassures King Jehoshaphat and the people of Judah and Jerusalem that they should not be afraid or discouraged in the face of a vast army. Instead, they are reminded that the battle ultimately belongs to God. This teaches the moral lesson of trusting in God's sovereignty and recognizing His ultimate authority over all circumstances, including daunting challenges.

Reliance on Divine Assistance: By acknowledging that the battle belongs to God, the verse emphasizes the importance of relying on divine assistance rather than solely on human strength or strategies. This teaches the moral lesson of dependence on God's power and guidance in times of difficulty and conflict.

Overcoming Fear and Discouragement: The instruction not to be afraid or discouraged highlights the need to overcome negative emotions that can paralyze or weaken resolve. This teaches the moral lesson of maintaining faith and confidence in God's ability to deliver victory, even in seemingly impossible situations.

Overall, this verse underscores the importance of trusting in God's sovereignty, relying on divine assistance, and overcoming fear and discouragement through faith, providing moral guidance for facing challenges with courage and confidence.



From: His-Legate - 2Cor. 5:20
#theworldneedtheWORD

#42 FEAR NOT… Success Through Obedience

 

Success through Obedience: The verse suggests that success is contingent upon obedience to the decrees and laws given by the Lord through Moses for Israel. This teaches the moral lesson that adherence to divine principles and guidance is essential for achieving success in life.

Strength and Courage: David encourages his son Solomon to be strong and courageous. This imparts the moral lesson that strength and courage are virtues necessary for facing the challenges and responsibilities of life with determination and resilience.

Overcoming Fear and Discouragement: David's exhortation to not be afraid or discouraged reinforces the importance of overcoming negative emotions that can hinder progress and growth. This teaches the moral lesson of resilience in the face of adversity and the need to maintain faith and confidence in one's abilities and in the Lord's guidance.

Having made the above salient points we are encouraged on the importance of obedience to divine laws, strength, courage, and resilience in overcoming fear and discouragement, providing moral guidance for living a purposeful and faithful life.



From: His-Legate - 2Cor. 5:20
#theworldneedtheWORD

#41 FEAR NOT… Stand Up Against Blasphemy

Trust in God's Promises: Isaiah instructs the people not to fear the blasphemous words spoken against God. This teaches the moral lesson of trusting in God's promises and assurances, even when facing challenges or threats to one's faith.

Standing Up Against Blasphemy: By refusing to succumb to fear and responding to the blasphemy with a message from the Lord, Isaiah demonstrates the importance of standing up against disrespect or insults directed towards God. This teaches the moral lesson of defending the honor and integrity of one's beliefs and values.

Faith Over Fear: The instruction to not be afraid despite the intimidating words of the Assyrian king's underlings underscores the moral lesson of choosing faith over fear. It encourages reliance on God's strength and protection rather than being swayed by threats or intimidation.

We are encouraged by this verse to trust in God's promises, stand up against blasphemy, and choose faith over fear, providing moral guidance for maintaining steadfastness in one's beliefs in the face of adversity.



From: His-Legate - 2Cor. 5:20
#theworldneedtheWORD
https://thewordnugget.blogspot.com/

# 40 FEAR NOT...

 

Obedience to Divine Guidance: Elijah demonstrates obedience to the command of the angel of the Lord. This teaches the moral lesson of heeding divine guidance and following God's instructions, even when faced with uncertainty or fear.

Courage in the Face of Threats: Despite potential danger (indicated by the command to not be afraid), Elijah displays courage by complying with the angel's directive. This highlights the importance of standing firm in one's beliefs and principles, even in challenging or intimidating situations.

Trust in Divine Protection: The reassurance from the angel of the Lord not to be afraid suggests a trust in divine protection. This conveys the moral lesson of having faith in God's provision and protection, even when confronting threatening circumstances.

Overall, this verse emphasizes the importance of obedience to divine guidance, courage in adversity, and trust in God's protection, providing moral guidance for navigating situations where fear and uncertainty may arise.

His-Legate - 2Cor. 5:20
#theworldneedtheWORD