Overcoming Adversity
Philippians 3:10
When we face adversity, there are 4 typical ways of coping with it.
First, we compare our situation to the situations of others that are less fortunate. For instance, we might have lost our job, but we take comfort in the fact that there are others who might have lost their health or the lives of their loved ones.
However, if we are unable to find solace in the fact that others are experiencing worse situations, then we try to find a silver lining through our adversity by thinking about how there might be some beneficial results. In the case of losing a job, maybe it turns out that we find a better job.
The third way to cope is for those who might be more introspective. We understand that not every adversity has a silver lining. So instead of looking at the unintended beneficial results of adversity, we look at this as an opportunity to draw strength from within. This is where we hear a lot of self-help advice telling us to be mentally prepared, to have a sense of humor, to believe in ourselves, etc.
If these coping mechanisms do not work, then we usually cope by not coping. We simply ignore the adversity and through this, we eventually harbor bitterness. So although we might be working in a new job, any thoughts or feelings that are associated with our old job triggers feelings of resentment.
In each of these common coping mechanisms, there are limitations. Fortunately, the gospel offers a better way. Through the gospel, adversities are used to enable us to have a deeper realization of our union with Christ through at least 3 ways:
(1) we can empathize with Jesus when he endured the worst adversities of being separated from the Father for our sin. This is what Paul means when he desires that he "may share his sufferings" (Phil 3.10).
(2) Because Jesus endured the worst adversities for us out of love, we gain a deeper appreciation of his love.
(3) as a result of #s 1 and 2, our desire is no longer about our preferences, but about his glory. This is what Paul means by "becoming like him in his death" (Phil 3.10).
1. Out of the 4 typical ways of coping, which one has been your most common way? In what ways have you experienced limitations with these ways of coping?
2. Read Philippians 3.10. Why would Paul desire to recognize the sharing of Jesus's suffering and to become like Jesus in his death? Why should we desire these same things?
3. Describe in your own words what union with Christ means. How should this change the way we handle adversities? Why is it sometimes a struggle for us to live as if we are united with Christ?
4. Share about an adversity that you are currently experiencing (or recently experienced). How can this adversity help you to (1) empathize with Christ's passion, (2) better appreciate Jesus's love for you, and (3) increase your desire to glorify God rather than yourself?
