Have you ever viewed the adversities of life as misfortunes? Have you or someone you know looked at a difficulty as a complete disaster? What about having what you believe is a perfect plan; only to view it to appear to completely perish right before your very eyes?
If you answered yes to one or all of the above stated situations; you are in the majority of a global population. This does not mean you have a negative outlook on life, what it does mean is that you’ve
lived long enough to have experienced some peaks and some valleys.
As a Lady Leader, I wish to speak to the valleys in your life, so that when you reach a peak, you will rejoice in the moment, and not miss it concentrating on the valleys. I also wish to whisper in your ear the value of the valleys, so that while you are having a valley experience you will treasure the wisdom and lessons learned during that season.
It never ceases to amaze me at the level of tactics and strategies the enemy uses as attempts to cause each of us to turn our back on God. I am also astonished as I view the extreme measures which are used to challenge our faith in the Word of our Lord and Savior.
Initially I was unable to comprehend the “count it all joy” scripture reference. This journey encompassed smooth sailing as well as potholes and bumps in the road. This concept helped me to comprehend the “peace that surpasseth all understanding” scripture. I’d heard these scriptures spoken so freely and frequently with such assurance. The lessons learned and the application of these scriptures came through the peaks and valleys in my life.
Let’s compare the advantage to the adversity to the assurance of insurance. In an effort to strengthen our faith, there MUST be a faith challenge. I must bear the pain of adversity so that I may enjoy the advantage of peace.
As responsible adults we purchase insurance so that when calamities or adversities arise we have the assurance that “we’re in good hands”.
Here are a couple of scenarios of how an adversity can prove to be a great advantage:
*You are privy to a conversation where you are the topic of discussion- yet you’re being spoken about in a derogatory manner, and it goes to the core of your inner man. Unfortunately what the “commentators” are saying is true.
At this point you have a choice to make, will you take what they said, sulk, become angry and do nothing about it? Or do you make this a prime opportunity to make some much needed life adjustments and become who the Lord says you are?
*Your family is supportive as long as “you’ve got it going on”, but the moment you need a favor or assistance-they won’t answer the phone, text or e-mail. This behavior causes you to become angry and withdrawn, because this is not the first time this has happened. You now feel used and taken for granted.
This is one of the greatest opportunities to increase your vocabulary to include the word “no”, as well as begin to realize the actual intent of the relationship. Many relationships are not balanced and once the scales tip, the revelation of the worth of the relationship becomes apparent and evident. These type of situations are revelations, learn from them and encourage yourself!
Your faith is tested, when everything and everyone who may have been the external source of stability is now different, including yourself. This passage of scripture speaks to us first in a manner which reminds us; adversities shall come! (My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations) James 1:2
The desire of The Lady Is A Leader this month is to remind you, that your assurance in the Word of God and His promise in your life is the insurance that every adversity you encounter shall prove to be an advantage which shall empower and enrich your journey.
Walk In Power,
Dr. BJ Relefourd
Lady LaKesia Scott- Editorial Proofreader
Women of Power Woman of the Year 2014
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