We are now a couple of weeks into the second half of 2020. If you’re like me, you’d be delighted either for this year to come to a quick end, or you’d like to start the year over. From fires that devastated a continent, to political wrangling over an impeachment trial, to a horrific global pandemic that has transformed the way we live, to an inexcusable murder of George Floyd that forced all of us to look deep inside and examine our hearts for own prejudices, 2020 has been a year like no other, and we’ve got half the year left!
I would never suggest that God caused a fire in Australia or planted a virus. I know God played no role in the political wrestling, and I know God grieved over the killing of George Floyd. But I would suggest that God grows us in hundreds of different ways, and one of His most effective methods is using hardship and challenges to cultivate our character.
The best way to cultivate patience is to be put in a situation that demands it. There is no greater opportunity to exercise the love of God than to be surrounded by enemies. You cannot exercise forgiveness if you’ve never been wronged. And if you need more patience, courage, love or forgiveness, don’t be surprised if you find yourself in a situation that demands more.
So, rather than asking God to make 2020 just go away, could we ask God to teach us what we need to learn so that we can be less like ourselves and more like Him? Rather than longing for what used to be, could we ask God to grow us to be better than we ever thought we could be? There’s never been a more important moment than now to work together to guide people into a growing relationship with Jesus.
-Mike Johnson