“My brethren, consider it all joy when you encounter various tribulations, knowing that the testing of your faith generates perseverance. “
James 1:2

I understand what you might be pondering, what sort of title is that for a message? “With all the crap comes strength” may appear slightly incongruous for a message, but upon reflection of the challenges you have faced and the growth you have experienced from life’s trials, you may find it to be quite accurate.

In Luke 13, Jesus recounted a parable regarding a man who had a fig tree situated in his vineyard. On a day when he sought fruit, he discovered none. He then inquired of the vineyard keeper why the tree was permitted to deplete the soil when it had not borne fruit for three years, and instructed the keeper to cut the fig tree down. The vineyard keeper replied, suggesting they leave it for another year; he would cultivate the soil around it and fertilize it. If it still failed to produce fruit, he would then cut it down.

As we are aware, the owner of the vineyard represents God, the vineyard keeper symbolizes Jesus, and the fig tree that is unproductive signifies humanity. God had become exasperated with humanity’s failure to be fruitful, yet through the salvation of Jesus Christ, we are afforded a second opportunity.

Recently, I conversed with a gentleman over the phone who was experiencing a challenging period. He expressed his confusion as to why God had permitted him to remain in the valley for such an extended time despite his commitment to Him. This individual has endured significant hardships for several years, and to him, there appears to be no glimmer of hope.

After listening to him enumerate the issues he faced, I began to highlight the positives that may yet arise. When our difficulties overshadow us, we often struggle to perceive the eventual benefits; we can only focus on the immediate challenges. James 1:2 reminds us to consider it all joy when we encounter trials, knowing that the examination will cultivate patience. The trials we endure act as the nourishment essential for our growth, enabling us to become fruitful.
In biblical eras, one could not simply visit a nearby home and garden center to acquire fertilizer; instead, it was sourced from animals. The fertilizer utilized then was manure, or what might colloquially be referred to as “crap. ” Following the preparation of the land, manure was applied to the cultivated area, and the ground would once again be worked to incorporate the manure into the soil; the quantity of fertilizer required was contingent upon the quality of the earth in which it was planted.

The quantity of fertilizer needed for us is contingent upon the soil in which we are rooted. If we are grounded in the Word of God, possessing knowledge and trust in Him, then we have fertile ground. Conversely, if we rely more on the world and its material possessions, our soil will necessitate greater enrichment for us to establish roots and yield fruit. To express this in more secular terms, Jesus must introduce considerable challenges into our lives to facilitate our growth; the more difficulties we encounter, the more we learn to rely on God. As our dependence on the Father intensifies, so does the strength of our faith, and with stronger faith comes increased fruitfulness.

James articulated, “Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him demonstrate through commendable conduct that his actions are executed in the humility of wisdom. However, if you harbor bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast and deceive against the truth. This wisdom does not originate from above but is earthly, sensual, and demonic. For where jealousy and selfish ambition are present, there exists confusion and every malignancy. Conversely, the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, compliant, abundant in mercy and good fruits, without favoritism and without deceit. The fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who promote peace. ”

When one begins to accumulate numerous challenges in life, it is prudent to pause and inquire of God what lessons need to be learned or areas for improvement. The fertilizer exists for a specific purpose, and the longer it takes to comprehend the reason, the more challenges will be heaped upon us until the soil is enriched, allowing us to take root.

I have encountered many challenges; the more God endeavored to capture my attention, the more I opted to follow my own path. The issue was my lack of understanding as to why events were unfolding as they were; I perceived that God was indifferent due to the choices I had made. Over the years, I attributed blame to God for my childhood experiences, my unsuccessful relationships, and various other aspects of my life. It was only after I surrendered my life to God that I began to grasp the purpose behind the various seasons of my existence. As I started to converse with others about Jesus Christ, I met individuals who were impeded from Christ by similar circumstances that had restrained me for an extended period.

The experiences I endured have now become my instruments to assist others; I learned how to articulate the reasons behind their feelings and how surrendering everything to Jesus Christ was the solution. The challenges surrounding me not only facilitated my growth but also began to develop branches that yielded positive outcomes. The difficulties in my life, which I perceived as unpleasant, were in fact the delightful manifestation of grace.

---

Like Our Articles? Help Support 24/7 Of Praise