In my Sunday School lesson, I taught from Charles Stanley’s principle that “you know you are growing in your relationship with Christ when spiritual battles are more fierce and you are still rejoicing.”
Rejoicing during hard times is not natural. It’s supernatural, and that is why it is an indication that you are growing spiritually.
Most of us do not rejoice during hard times. We complain, worry, get angry, depressed and sad.
How are we suppose to rejoice in hard times?
It’s been said by many that you cannot change your circumstance, but you can change is your attitude. Our attitudes can change when we look at the facts of our circumstances from God’s view.
Last week, I was worried about my health. I was thinking that I may have some serious illness.
As I was stressing over this, God spoke to me while I was preparing the Sunday School lesson.
“I can calm a raging storm. Do you think I have authority over your health?”
Yes, you do, Lord.
“I died for you on the cross, and love you as my child. Do you think I have your best in mind?”
Yes, you do, Lord.
“Do you think I have a purpose for everything you go through?
Yes, I know you do, Lord.
“Do you believe that it’ll all turn out for good?
Yes, I know that ultimately it’ll all turn out for good.
“I’m taking you on an adventure. Bad times are merely an opportunity to accomplish something extraordinary. Don’t worry. Rejoice because you know I have a good plan for your life.”
And then I wasn’t worried anymore. Nothing is a surprise to God. Nothing is out of God’s control.
Just like in Narnia, each day is an adventure, with a good ending.