by Mr. Victor Pereira
Why is it that God allows his children to go through painful times? Well, once you begin to understand His purposes and principles, your attitude towards these difficult times will change. And that is what the message is all about "Wisdom for trials of life".
Definition of wisdom : seeing things from god's perspective.
1. Why we need wisdom
We need wisdom to discern the source of our trial. Trial may be of varied forms and may come in various ways :
- Making wrong decisions.
- Persecution from others.
- Living in a fallen world
- The devil
- God – permits them and allows them
2. We need wisdom to discern the purpose of trials.
- If I don't understand the purpose I will have a negative attitude, which can be expressed in the following ways :
- It just happened to me.
- It is absolutely unnecessary.
- I feel defeated.
- We see the trials from our strength and resources.
- We fail to recognise that God is taking advantage of an opportunity to demonstrate something in our lives.
- I am a victim.
- What are God's purposes in trials ?
- To test our faith - James 1:2
- To test our devotion to Jesus – Job 1:2
- To purify our life – James 1:2
- Gives God the opportunity to demonstrate His sustaining power.
- To produce in us Christ – Like character
- To equip us and make us usable in the kingdom of God for the sake of others (Joseph and Moses)
- We need wisdom to discern the right response
- I must be persuaded that God is in Control of the timing and intensity of my trial.
- God has a specific purpose for allowing this trial in my life.
- This trial is designed to meet specific need.
- This trial is going to prove to be for my good if I respond in faith.
- This trial can strengthen my faith.
- This trial is an opportunity for God to demonstrate His power to sustain me under great pressure.
- This trial is developing Christ like character in me.
- This trial will help me measure my spiritual growth.
- God will walk with me through every single step of this trial.
- By His grace and the enabling power of the Holy Spirit we will come out as conquerors over every trial.