How Adversity Shapes Our Character

Life has a curious way of shaping us through hardship. Two people can walk through identical storms and come out as two entirely different individuals. Some hearts harden in the face of childhood difficulties, or past trauma. Their hearts give them a bitter and critical outlook on life. Other hearts will soften, becoming more compassionate and understanding because they know exactly the burden of suffering someone else may be carrying.

The Bible says in Proverbs 17:17:

A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.

Although we are all born for adversity because of sin in the world, Proverbs 17:17 teaches us that adversity can birth something else: the understanding and compassion of becoming a good friend. The problem is, all too often, adverse circumstances instead breed resentment and bitterness.

Two Paths

Consider two children raised in homes lacking discipline, love and stability. Both children will experience the heartache of unmet needs and the uncertainty of an unpredictable home life.

One child grows into an adult who views people as threats to stay away from. They think and say things like: "No one was there for me, so why should I be there for others?" They allow their past wounds to harden into the armor they use as a shield to keep others at a distance. The emotional walls they build are intentional, as they focus on the last half of Proverbs 17:17... and a brother is born for adversity.

The second child takes a different path. Having known emptiness, hurt and instability, they recognize it in others and feel compelled to be a friend. They think and say things like: "I know life can hurt, and I don't want anyone else to go it alone". Their past scars become the map they use to latch onto the whole of Proverbs 17:17, especially the first half... A friend loveth at all times!

Finding a Friend who Cares

Remember, there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother. It's Jesus Christ. He is a friend:

• who compassionately cares.
• that sticketh closer than a brother.
• that loveth at all times.
• who will never leave you, nor forsake you.
• who is your shelter in the time of storm.

Trust that Jesus will put the right people in our lives to help us through life's adversities. Also, allow Jesus to help our own hearts to be ones that get better, not bitter, as we find wisdom in Proverbs 4:23...

Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.

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