When We Face Hardships
SERMON BY PASTOR Ben
Passages from Book of Genesis chapter 13:1-18
Pastor Ben shared with the 1.5 Generation congregation at EFCI on the topic of "When We Face Hardship”. The passage contrasts the action taken by lot and Abraham. Through the comparison, Pastor Ben shows us the importance of relying on God, not ourselves when we face hardships.
Go Back to Our Origin
When Lot and Abraham were traveling together to Bethel, they realize that “their possessions were so great that they were not able to stay together” without fighting for lands. Abraham chooses to separate because he remembers that they have the same origin; they are brothers. Similarly, when we face hardships or difficulties, we should always be reminded what is the original purpose that God gave us. In marriage, remember why God brings both of you together. In work, recall what your passion is.
Release Yourself
In the passage, Abraham describes Lot and himself as “Brethren”, which is the archaic plural form of brother. But truthfully, Abraham is Lot’s uncle. In the Old Testament, elders should always be served and respected. Abraham has every right to feel offended, when Lot, a younger person, is arguing with him. But he not only is not angry, but also offers Lot to choose the land first. When problems come, it is normal for a person to get angry and lose control. But remember God has the power to release our negative emotions like stress, anger, and grief.
Rely on God, not yourself. Ask him to open our eyes, so that we can see his purpose in us, and follow to the places that he wants to bring us. Pray for the comfort in our hearts, so we may have peace.
No matter how large or complicated your problems is, remember “Jesus looked at them and said, "With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible." (Matthew 19:26)