Faithfulness in the life of the believer or the lack of it is often revealed by the circumstances they find themselves in. They test the integrity of the heart and expose anything ungodly. Therefore, it is important to embrace the situations in which we find ourselves. We count it all joy when face trials of many different kinds (see James 1:2-3). We need to allow the circumstances of life to be used to train us, as well as shape us. We need to come to that place where we love God unconditionally, and will serve Him regardless of our state of affairs.
Circumstances will train us to serve God by virtue of will, instead of emotionalism. If we are going to be mature, we have to get beyond “I don’t feel like it.” They help teach us to walk in obedience without resistance, regardless of the mountains. Besides, how can we say, “Be thou removed,” if there are no mountains to move?
Circumstances teach us not to be self-reliant. Indeed, they should cause us to draw even closer to God than ever. It is in this place that one truly learns what humility means because some circumstances are too big for us; hence, the recognition that we need to rely on God. For some people, large impossible circumstances are what teach them to rely on God for the “little things.” To be sure, this where the realization sets in that we need to rely on Him for everything. Think about it, we cannot breathe, let alone get out of bed without Him. In fact, without Him, we would not exist!
If we have control issues, God will allow circumstances to arise in order to teach us to let go. Yes, they train us to trust Him. Perhaps one of the reasons people find themselves repeating the same circumstances is because they have not learned to trust the Lord in those areas of their lives. When we let go, God is free to move the mountains. We bind His hands by seeking to control the circumstances. We hold back His blessings when we murmur and complain. Why is that? Because fear and ungratefulness moves in the opposite direction of faith. Faith pleases God; fear does not. “The just live by faith” (see Galatians 3:11).
Circumstances bring glory to God. They reveal His greatness when He moves in them. They teach us to glorify Him, regardless of difficulties and regardless of ease. In all things, we are to give thanks and give Him glory. They train us to be thankful.
