I have been thinking about the concept of tension for a few weeks. In the physical world, you need two opposing forces to have tension. Think of limp rope that is tied securely on one end to an object. It will remain limp until the other end is attached to another object and the slack pulled from the rope. In society and everyday life, people dislike tension in their lives. We gravitate to one side while despising the other end.
We grow stronger by having some tension in our lives. There is no need to look for trouble/tension because it has a way of finding us. We need to see the opportunity of becoming stronger when trouble comes.
Perhaps we need to change our attitude toward tension. Maybe just maybe, God may allow tension to make us stronger. If I had been born into this world and never experienced any challenges, then I would be much weaker than I am today. The scripture even bears this out.
“And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope” (Romans 5:3-4 NKJV).
In the athletic world, physical strength is only gained by resistance. And that resistance is possible using gravity. An athlete gains strength by the tension of their muscle force and the resistance of gravity. Astronauts lose muscle mass when they stay in zero gravity.
In the spiritual world and in the societal world, we gain strength from resistant forces that cause tension. No one likes tension. It seems like only flawed people seek it. But it is necessary for growth and maturity.
We should not seek it, because it will find us. Jesus said, “These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world” (John 16:33 NKJV).
I have been trying to change my attitude about tension or trouble. When it comes, I plan to pray and seek deliverance from it. Until the solution comes, I plan to allow the experience to be as a “gym membership” to do some resistance training. Instead of being pouty about it, we need to look for the positive to overcome the tension. Through Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit we can overcome trouble. Then when we exit that trouble, we can stand much taller and much stronger.
Instead of whining to God about “Why is this happening to me?” Rather pray, “Lord, help me through this trouble to come out victorious, stronger, more patient, and thankful for your mercy, grace, and power to overcome every obstacle.
“My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing” (James 1:2-4 NKJV).
So don’t go looking for trouble or difficulty but when it comes use it for some strength building exercise. Young David in the Bible killed a bear and a lion before he victoriously faced the giant.
Yours on the Journey,
Harry L. Whitt
Pathway Journey 