In our meditation yesterday, we tested Napoleon Hill’s hypothesis that “every adversity, every failure, every heartache carries with it the seed of an equal or greater benefit”. You will recall the tribulations which Paul and Silas encountered in Macedonia. Ironically, the place where he had been bruised became a source of blessing years later. Psalm 34:19 says that many are the afflictions of the righteous. But that should not cause us to lose heart; because God promised to deliver us from them all. What is required of a child of God is patience amid tribulation.

How can a child of God manage adversity, failure, or heartache? There are three things we need to mention here. Firstly, the fact that Jesus has overcome all things is a big assurance. We know that He tasted suffering for the whole of human race. We know He was tempted at all points as we are, yet without sin. He has been through it before. Having been broken Himself, He has become the Master at mending. Secondly, a believer takes his assurance of deliverance from the promise the Master made. The gospel of Matthew ends with this promise of Jesus: “Teaching them to observe everything that I have commanded you, and behold, I am with you all the days (perpetually, uniformly, and on every occasion), to the [very] close and consummation of the age. Amen (so let it be).” Matthew 28:20 AMPC. Jesus remains the ever-present help in trouble. Finally, we must ask the Lord to show us the seed of the benefit contained in our present predicaments.