“Overcoming Bad Experiences”
No one enjoys going through a bad situation, but we all experience them from time to time. Some of these experiences may be life changing, life threatening, or at the very least difficult to endure. Many are chalked up to “life lessons” we can learn from. Hopefully!
Jesus was born, humbly, into the very world he created. He stepped down, took the form of a low-level member of society, and lived among us. Based on the description of Isaiah 52 and 53, Jesus did not have an advantaged life. Throughout his life, he experienced everything we experience. He was born to imperfect parents. It’s believed his father (Joseph) died when he was a young teenager. So, he spent many years in a single – parent home.
The Son of God was rejected, slandered, and disrespected by many, while others accepted him. He was tempted by Satan himself and was accused over and over of things he never did. Yet in all of that, he never strayed from perfection. The good news for us is that no matter what we go through, God understands our pain, temptation, and struggle.
Jesus sees and understands our weaknesses, shortcomings, and even our absolute failures. In spite of everything we’ve ever done wrong in life, He still loves us and came into this world to rescue (save) us. Instead of condemning us immediately for our sin, Jesus offers grace and forgiveness. All we have to do is ask for his forgiveness and accept Him as our Lord and Savior. In that moment we become a child of God.
Throughout his life, Jesus shows us that there are hidden opportunities even when life is hopeless. His example is that there is always a better option than what seems obvious at first. But we have to learn from and lean into him.
Becoming a Christian doesn’t mean we’re free from disappointments and difficulties. It does mean we have an advocate who can sympathize with us. Not only that, but he’s powerful enough to do something about it. We can rely on God when facing disappointment or what seems to be impossible situations. He’ll never forsake us!
Pastor Carnes
