A believer will face all kinds of adversity as they seek to follow Jesus Christ. For some, this comes as a rude shock. They thought that God was going to solve all their problems and give them the easy life. Believers who do not develop deep roots in God do not last through the difficulties that God allows into their lives.
Mark 4:17 (NIV) But since they have no root, they last only a short time. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, they quickly fall away.
The adversity that comes may be external trouble or persecution. This type of adversity can discourage you and cause you to turn your back on God. Other types of adversity may be more deceptive in luring you away from God.
Mark 4:19 (NIV) but the worries of this life, the deceitfulness of wealth and the desires for other things come in and choke the word, making it unfruitful.
The types of adversity that Jesus mentions in this verse are basically distractions from God’s plan for your life. Worry is a distraction. Money and any other kind of desire for things that are wrong will lead you away from God’s purpose for your life. The end result is that you do not produce any fruit for God, which proves your belief was not real in the first place. All temptation begins with a distraction away from God’s plan for your life.
What is the answer to facing adversity and it’s distractions? The answer is to keep your eyes on Jesus and His plan for your life. A believer is fundamentally a follower of Jesus Christ. The phrase “follower of Jesus” has become a cliche with little meaning for many. However, a follower of Jesus Christ is someone who doesn’t let themselves become distracted by adversity. Whether the adversity is external trouble or internal temptations, a true believer will keep their eyes on Jesus and refuse to be distracted.
Hebrews 12:2 (NIV) Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
Jesus faced adversity by keeping His eyes fixed on God’s plan for His life and fulfilled that plan completely. As you keep your eyes fixed on Jesus, He will strengthen you to accomplish the purpose you were created for.
Listen to my July 12, 2009 message “Facing Intimidation” based on Nehemiah 6, to learn how to face adversity in your life (message notes).