Faithfulness in Adversity
Even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.” Colossians 3:13 KJV
John Peter Muhlenberg had a brother named Frederick. Frederick was less than impressed with John’s stirring sermon from Ecclesiastes. In fact, he told his brother, as a fellow pastor, that he shouldn’t get involved in politics and war. However, John instructed his brother that he loved his liberties just as much as any man. He would fight to defend them if necessary. Frederick disagreed with his brother until one day the British torched his church building.
After the church was reduced to ashes, Frederick changed his mind and sided with the patriotic Americans in their struggle for independence. Later on, after the war, Frederick became America’s very first speaker of the House of Representatives. God worked mightily through the Muhlenberg family, indeed!
Do you feel as if you have friends and family who aren't standing up for what is right? Maybe life’s struggles have driven you to despair because you feel helpless to fix broken family situations. Don’t give up hope for your loved ones and don’t despair as you try to patch up friendships that have gone sideways. Hardships and disagreements can bring you closer together with those you care about, if the situation is approached in love. “Forbearing one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.” (Colossians 3:13 KJV)
Frederick eventually came around to understanding his brother’s perspective after circumstances changed. So too, our friends and family may also be reunited in Christian agreement if we ask Christ to help us to be forbearing with one another.
My God desires each soul’s salvation,
My soul he too desires to save;
Therefore with Christian resignation
All earthly troubles I will brave.
His will be done eternally:
What pleases God, that pleases me.
The Lutheran Hymnal 529:5