You learn a lot from someone by watching them under pressure. Do they stay true to themselves? Do they buckle? 

I can’t imagine the pressure and intensity Jesus must have felt in the Garden of Gethsemane. His betrayal was at hand. He was about to be tortured and crucified (and he knew it).

Soldiers arrived with Judas to identify Jesus. In response, Peter pulled out a sword and cut off Malchus’ ear. Jesus scolded him and said: “Put your sword into its sheath; shall I not drink the cup that the Father has given me?” (John 18:11) In other words, ‘Shall I not experience the suffering that my heavenly Father has laid out for me as I fulfill his will?’

The answer is Yes. This is all unfolding according to God’s plan, and is for humanity’s benefit.

Peter seemed to struggle with the idea that adversity could still be a part of God’s plan. I think we struggle with that too. When things go sideways we have a hard time seeing how that could be a part of a bigger plan.

Just because you’re in a tight spot that doesn’t mean you’re in the wrong spot.

As I say that I need to include a footnote. If you’re in something like an abusive or harmful situation, I’m NOT saying that’s where you should be. What I AM saying is that some challenging situations can be used by God for great things.

What if you were exactly where you needed to be to advance God’s work in your particular situation?

If adversity stopped Jesus we’d all be sunk!

Don’t give up. Trust God. Do you best to be well. Pray. And never underestimate what God can do when times are tough.

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Notes:

–The Up Devotional is published 5 days a week (Monday-Friday) and resumes on March 6, 2023

–Bible quotes are from the NIV.