The scriptures say, “If you faint on the day of adversity, your strength is small.” (Proverbs 24:10) Take some time to think about the last time you fainted. Why did you faint and what did you do about it?
Some of you are asking, “What does it look like to faint? Glad you asked! The Bible is not eluding to somebody actually fainting per se but rather speaking about somebody who is unable to stand when things get tough.
For instance:
- You get mad at a spouse and slam a pan on the counter.
- You get a bad report from the doctor and go into depression.
- You lose your job and have a panic attack.
- Your marriage breaks up so you go on a drinking binge.
Maybe your strength is small because you are very young in the ways of the Lord. We all start out as babies who need to develop our muscles. However, some of us are no longer babes but have failed to exercise faith in Jesus. Whichever example fits you, know that as you do the faith building exercises you will eventually no longer faint but be one who is able to stand strong.
Many people, like my son, go to the gym every day to work out and build up their muscles. It is really a blessing too when I need to have some heavy furniture moved from one room to another. Not just anybody would be able to handle such a task. However, because he has regularly exercised he is able to help me in my time of need.
Likewise, those who exercise their faith on a daily basis are more apt to successfully handle heavily weighted situations called adversity. Sometimes their strength is not only beneficial for themselves but others as well.
So, what do those spiritual exercises look like?
* Seek Him through prayer.
* Listen to Him through the reading of the Word.
* Do what He says.
* If you are still uncertain, speak with a Christian adviser.
Proverbs 23:23 says, “Buy the truth! Do not sell it and wisdom and instruction and understanding! (ONM) Yes, the spiritual gym is costly but the failure to invest in its privileges always result in chaos and devastation.
Do not minimize your weakened state by thinking it doesn’t affect anybody else. Do not justify your weakness because of what another person does. God sees everything and He doesn’t accept excuses.
When you are strong you do not faint but rather respond in a way that pleases the Lord. For example:
- When you get angry with your spouse you stay composed or walk away for a time. When you give a response to whatever the adverse situation it is you direct it to your spouse’s behavior. A statement is given in a kind but firm voice that describes what the offense was and how it made you feel. After which you describe what your partner can do to make things right.
- When you receive a bad report from the doctor you remember whose report to believe. The Lord says we are already healed so you rest in that. You know that there are many conditions for that provision, forgiveness being one. You do not allow any un-forgiveness to cause you to faint in this adverse situation. You consider the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth so that God can provide.
- When you have lost your job you know that you know that you know, that God is still your provider. You don’t faint, you rest. However, if the loss was due to any fault of your own you immediately repent because you realize that God corrects those whom He loves. You have learned that His provision is more than money to buy groceries. He allows opportunities that will show you areas where you need to grow up in order to have more than enough.
- When your marriage breaks up you take a good look inwardly first to examine your own heart. You rest in the fact that you will do all that you can do and then trust God to do the rest. When you find that you have done things to cause a breakup you humble yourself and confess your faults to your partner. Then ask for forgiveness while making a commitment to learn how to do better.
There is a saying that says, “Only the strong survive.” But, I believe it is better said, “Only the strong thrive!”
So, if you need some practical teaching that will help you understand Biblical truths get my book “Character Blocks”. It will prove to be a valuable resource for you.
Blessings,
Dr. Terry