Considering that 2024 ended with palpable unrest, civil disobedience, and wars raging throughout the world and that in the USA, 2025 opened with two evil acts of terrorism on New Years Day, the title of today’s blog might seem to at best far-fetched or at worst delusional. If viewed as achievable through political processes, educational breakthroughs, or realignment of social norms, I completely agree. Nevertheless, if we look beyond the frailties of humankind for our marching orders, we will find that God in His Word established paradigms for living victoriously that can be relied upon in all circumstances and time frames. Numerous examples can be cited; however, for today, I have chosen two truths, one from the Old Testament and one from the New Testament.
We Are Not Alone
The king of Aram, who was at war with Israel, became enraged that the prophet Elisha persisted in revealing his plans to the king of Israel. Finally, having had enough, he marshalled all his forces to find and destroy Elisha:
Then he dispatched horses and chariots, an impressive fighting force. They came by night and surrounded the city. Early in the morning a servant of the Holy Man got up and went out. Surprise! Horses and chariots surrounding the city! The young man exclaimed, “Oh, master! What shall we do?” He said, “Don’t worry about it—there are more on our side than on their side.” Then Elisha prayed, “O God, open his eyes and let him see.” The eyes of the young man were opened and he saw. A wonder! The whole mountainside full of horses and chariots of fire surrounding Elisha (2 Kings 6:14-17 MSG)!
Then, as well as now, there is an unseen host of ministering angels who are always active in the lives of God’s people. This vast army stands ready to assist us when our eyes are open to the exciting opportunities that are ahead! Conversely, spiritual blindness can prevent us from seeing and utilizing the resources that are continually available to us.
Turning Difficulties into Opportunities
Scripture does not teach that difficulties in life are an indication that God is displeased with us. Rather, He uses trials and suffering to develop in us perseverance and Godly character. I like to think that they are an indicator that God recognizes our faith and has complete confidence that we are committed to Him. Note the admonition of James, the half-brother of Jesus and the leader of the Jerusalem church:
My fellow believers, when it seems as though you are facing nothing but difficulties, see it as an invaluable opportunity to experience the greatest joy that you can! For you know that when your faith is tested it stirs up in you the power of endurance. And then as your endurance grows even stronger, it will release perfection into every part of your being until there is nothing missing and nothing lacking (James 1:2-4 TPT).
This scriptural passage negates the idea that spiritual maturity can be quickly achieved. In the original language of the New Testament, the concept of maturity — translated here as perfection — points to a right relationship with God which causes one to wholeheartedly love Him and manifest obedience and right living. Thus — nothing missing and nothing lacking!
Walking into the coming year, Christ-followers have two choices: to be intimidated by the evil surrounding us, acquiesce to the encroaching dominance of a secular worldview, attempt to maintain the status quo, and live in paralyzing fear; or to adhere to the paradigms for living victoriously that are found throughout the Bible, attempt the seemingly impossible, and achieve great things. Sitting it out on the sidelines is not an option — believe that you are not alone and turn your difficulties into opportunities! Chuck Swindoll has wisely stated: “Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you react to it.”
Ron Harvard Ministries 