Struggles bring believers closer to God
By John Hall, Texas Baptists Communications | 11.02.09
ARLINGTON – At times, ministry – like life – will be a struggle, said Francis Chan, author of Crazy Love and pastor of Cornerstone Church in Simi Valley, Calif. The Bible forecasts that Christ followers will be persecuted and face challenges, a prediction that continually proves itself true today.
But the God of the Bible also restores people who endure it, Chan said during Youth Ministry Conclave, sponsored by Texas Baptists.
The Bible repeatedly says that Christians will suffer as a result of their faith, even be persecuted because of their beliefs, Chan noted as he went through a series of biblical passages. As believers seek to expand God’s kingdom, they will encounter obstacles.
Chan said he’s recently experienced challenges within his church and went through a period where he dealt with anger as a result of the situation. He went as far to say that “he lost his grace” with other people, losing part of his witness to others.
It’s there, however, Christians can find Jesus like they never have before, Chan said. If they turn to Him in struggles, they can discover a new closeness to Him. During trials, people are more willing to rely on Christ.
He shared a story of meeting one of 23 Korean missionaries who were imprisoned by the Taliban in Afghanistan. Two missionaries were killed during the hostage situation, and the others were released about six weeks later. The survivor that Chan met said he’d never felt closer to Christ than during that experience.
“There’s something about suffering and this intimacy with Jesus that we don’t feel otherwise,” he said.
In moments of struggle, God cares for His people, Chan said. He encouraged youth ministers and workers who are frustrated or ready to give up to forge on in their efforts to expand God’s kingdom. God will help His followers persevere.
“The God of all grace – He Himself restores you, strengthens you, confirms you,” Chan said.