The Best is Yet to Come: Lessons from Adversity in Acts
Broadcast Episode Summary
Your Worst Life Now highlights the journey of faith for believers, emphasizing that current struggles are part of a greater promise of hope and future glory.
- Understand the contrast between believers and non-believers, where the best is yet to come for those who have faith.
- Recognize that adversity and trials are not signs of failure but opportunities to grow in patience and trust in God.
- Embrace the lessons of perseverance, as tribulations build character and provide a hope that sustains through challenges.
- Shift perspective by seeing how hardships can diminish the importance of trivial matters, focusing on eternal values.
- Seek to encourage others in faith, understanding that strength comes from shared experiences and a commitment to Christ.
Your Worst Life Now: Understanding the Journey of Faith
In the world today, many people strive to “live their best life now.” This phrase often suggests a focus on immediate happiness and fulfillment. However, Pastor Gary Hemric from Cornerstone Chapel presents a different perspective for believers: your worst life now is a reality. For those who follow Christ, the challenges faced today are mere stepping stones to a glorious future.
The Contrast Between Believers and Unbelievers
For unbelievers, the sad truth is this is your best life now. The reality is that, without faith, life can feel as good as it gets. However, for believers, the best is yet to come. This contrast highlights a significant aspect of faith: as believers, our current struggles are not the end. Instead, they are a reminder that our ultimate hope lies beyond this life. Despite the difficulties of the Christian journey, knowing how the story ends brings comfort and strength.
Learning Through Adversity
Pastor Gary emphasizes that the Christian life is not one of ease. Believers will face adversity, trials, and hardships. This leads to a vital lesson: we must, through many tribulations, enter the kingdom of God. The apostle Paul experienced this firsthand. After being stoned and left for dead, he returned to the very city that had rejected him to strengthen the disciples. His actions teach us that the desire to encourage others often outweighs personal fears.
Moreover, tough times teach us patience. As James 1:2-3 states, “Count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience.” When faced with trials, believers learn to lean on God and trust in His plan. This patience is not merely passive waiting; it is an active trust in God’s goodness and timing.
Perseverance and Perspective
Additionally, tough times cultivate perseverance. Romans 5:3 says that tribulation produces perseverance, character, and hope. Each challenge faced builds a stronger character, leading to a hope that does not disappoint. As believers endure hardships, they experience God’s love sustaining them, reinforcing their faith.
Lastly, adversity often changes our perspective. Those who have faced significant trials frequently find that what once seemed crucial loses its importance. Issues that once caused stress fade in light of the bigger picture of eternal life. This shift in perspective helps believers to focus on what truly matters—living for Christ and serving others.
Ultimately, the message is clear: while life as a believer may be challenging, it is also filled with purpose and hope. The trials faced today are temporary, and the promise of eternal life is a glorious assurance. As Pastor Gary concludes, remember that this is your worst life now as a believer; the best is yet to come.
- For more insights, check out Cornerstone Connection broadcasts.
- Subscribe to the podcast for more teachings.
- Learn how to listen to Bott Radio Network.
Conclusion
Your Worst Life Now as a believer serves as a powerful reminder that the struggles faced today are not the end of the story. For believers, the promise of eternal life and the hope that lies ahead offer comfort amid adversity. Each trial faced is an opportunity for growth in patience, perseverance, and perspective. By understanding that today’s challenges prepare us for the future, believers can find strength in their faith. Embrace the journey, encourage others, and remember: the best is yet to come. How will this perspective change the way challenges are viewed in life?
Originally published as “The Best is Yet to Come: Lessons from Adversity in Acts” from Cornerstone Connection.