Charles Wickham, in his book Pastors at Risk (see sidebar) has a chapter on adversity--or, as he calls it, trials. There he has six affirmations he urges on pastors--and I am convinced they are not only good for pastors. These truths are all gleaned from 1 Peter. So let me share them with you:
1. Experiencing trials is an inevitable part of life (1 Peter 1:6, "if necessary...").
2. The trial I am experiencing is temporary at best. (1 Peter 1:6, "for a little while").
3. Trial will be of great value to your life (1 Peter 1:7).
4. In trial, I will maintain my relationship with Jesus Christ (1 Peter 1:8-9).
5. In trial, I rule out ever getting even (1 Peter 2:23, the example of Jesus).
6. In trial, I will commit myself to God, who always does what is just and right (1 Peter 2:23b).
I am going to stick these on a card, and hang it above my monitor. Good stuff.
