Guidance in the midst of adversity
And though the Lord gives you, The bread of adversity and the water of affliction, Yet your teachers will not be moved into a corner anymore, But your eyes shall see your teachers. Isaiah 30:20
There are some people who feel resentment toward their upbringing and the families who give them much adversity and affliction, and they wish their parents could be more loving to lessen their pain. It is true that good parenting is crucial for a person's emotional wellbeing, a sense of security and self-worth in general.
I do want to point out that good parenting does not necessarily result in raising "good" children, just as doing good in life does not always guarantee a “good result”. We've seen some pastor children from Godly families become prodigal and rebellious sons and daughters. In spite of parents' best efforts, many uncertain factors cannot be controlled, such as children making their own choices, under the influence of the world and the realities of life. Despite how protective and loving their parents are, children will need to face their own battles, as life comes with adversity and affliction.
Life can bring hardships and suffering. The key verse here explains that suffering is like bread and water, which are necessities. The word "adversity" refers to our enemies, which is a spiritual reality that Satan attempts to devour us. The word "affliction" refers to oppression, and these sufferings are inevitable.
Although acknowledging the hard truth sounds depressing, the key verse today promises that even in hardships, we will find teachers who will guide us. With His wisdom and guidance, God guides us through whatever comes our way by showing us His true bread and water. Often, we need to experience spoiled bread and bitter water on earth before appreciating the goodness of the bread of life and the water of life.
Therefore, let us not resent whatever brings us adversity or affliction, whether it's our family, previous relationships, or circumstances in life. It is always better to be uncomfortable but guided by God than comfortable but out of step with God.
It is ultimately our eyes that shall "see" the teachers, the word see being "ra'ah", which implies a spiritual insight. Our eyes will be open and see God who offers spiritual redemption, and He is the only one to make us whole. God's mercy will lead us into His presence and love in the midst of adversity and affliction.
Blessing prayer: Help us hear your guidance in the midst of hardship by opening our spiritual eyes and ears, in Jesus’ name, Amen.
