Many years ago, the Lord taught me a painful but transformative lesson that ultimately worked for my good. At the time, I was serving as a youth leader. God had elevated me from being an assistant to the main leader, and I was basking in His grace. I noticed that most churches had a designated youth pastor, so I decided to appoint the assistant parish pastor's wife to the role. She was vibrant, passionate, and our relationship as co-laborers in the ministry was strong.
There came a time when we were preparing for a Youth Service—essentially a special program dedicated to the youth. As the youth leader, I "felt" led to minister during the service. I took the responsibility seriously. I embarked on a three-day dry fast, dedicating myself to prayer and preparation. On the Saturday before the service, I went out with my spiritual father for a birthday party. He asked me to eat, but I refused and told him I was ministering the next day and was on a dry fast. I even had a midnight prayer session to intercede for the program. I was full of fire, ready to pour it out. But I never knew something shocking would happen.
However, during the workers' meeting on Sunday morning, my pastor made an announcement that left me shocked and almost in tears. He said, "The person who will minister today is Mummy Victoria." I couldn't believe it! I had sacrificed so much in preparation for that moment, and yet, it felt as though my efforts had been disregarded. I looked at my younger brother; we both stared at each other in shock. He knew I was fasting. My mind was racing, and I wanted to scream, "No, this is not happening to me!" My flesh wanted to react in anger, but I struggled to control myself.
I lie not, I can't even say if it was because of my disappointment or what. In the space of two days or so, I fell seriously ill. I begged God for healing. It was something really serious, but also something funny. Just because I wasn't allowed to preach I feel ill.
In hindsight, I realize that God was teaching me something profound. Much like Joseph in Genesis 37:9, who suffered betrayal at the hands of his brothers, I was experiencing a test of my character, a test on how I would react if what I wanted never happened, how I'll react if it doesn't go the way I planned. Joseph’s brothers envied him because of his dreams and the favor he carried, but God used their actions to shape Joseph into the leader He had destined him to become. Similarly, God allowed this situation to refine me.
There are certain experiences we must go through for our growth. Some of them may feel unjust or painful, but they serve a divine purpose. They correct our flaws, humble us, and prepare us for greater responsibilities. At the time, I didn’t fully understand why this was happening to me, but later, I saw God’s wisdom in it. These experiences taught me patience, resilience, and reliance on God rather than on my own strength or plans.
Interestingly, weeks or years later, similar situations occurred. Each time, I found that I handled them with understanding than before. What initially seemed like a trial became an opportunity for growth. I had learned not to let such moments break my spirit or alter my character.
So, I encourage you—learn from the challenges and setbacks you face. They are not designed to destroy you but to mold you into who God wants you to be. As Romans 8:28 reminds us: "And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose."
Trust God in the process, and He will bring you to the place of destiny fully equipped and matured.
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