"Shall we indeed accept good from God, and shall we not accept adversity?" Job 2:10
The hand of faith accepts what God gives, be it good or bad. The eye of faith looks mostly upon the Giver and not the gift. Our comfort is not in our lot but in our Lord.
Notice...
Note that Job not merely "experienced" adversity, but "accepted" it. To accept adversity is an act of faith. Many experience trials, but do not accept them. The Christian must give lodging to every affliction sent by the Lord as he would his closest friend who needs a room.
Note also that Job did not "enjoy" adversity, but "accepted" it. Job was no lover of pain. He did not pretend it pleased his flesh, but he nevertheless receives it willingly into his heart. Christ Himself felt the agonies of the cross, but accepted the thorns and nails. So every Christian must accept every affliction given by God, though the pain is deeply felt.
But how? How does one accept adversity in this way?
1) See God's hand in it For Job, this was all "from God." It was not fate, or chance, or luck. It was not man's doing ultimately. Every affliction of God's people is by His design. His hand has measured it out. His arm delivered it. His mind planned it. Every attribute of the Triune God was employed in the creation of this affliction: His sovereignty, omniscience, holiness, justice and love. Our trials live on earth, but they were born in heaven.
2) See God's heart in it. Every affliction is intended for our good. Every trial flows from His love. Behind a frowning Providence He hides a smiling face. When He gives weeping for a night, He plans joy for the morning. His tender affection accompanies even the toughest affliction.
Oh my soul. Look up. He who has given us His Son, will He not also give us all things? Can the Lord ever forget those for whom His Son gave His life and died? Accept this affliction from Him. Receive it. Make room for it. Even welcome it as He truly intends it for our good, and not for evil.
