As a Christian, have we ever encountered things that never go our way? Perhaps not getting the job we want? The score we want? The favorite Nasi Lemak we want? Have we ever tried doing something but an opposite reaction occurs? If your answers were yes to any of these questions, this article is for you. If not, it is in fact impacting you in ways you do not know.
Today, we will be discussing something that has been piquing my interest as of lately - The Christian Paradox. “Why?” you may ask. Well, all of us as Christians have in fact faced our fair share of trials and tribulations. For me it mainly concerns life as a young Christian and also my academic studies. Whenever I turn to the Bible to seek solace in my troubles, I am often confronted with some responses which I felt absurd to me in the heat of my moment, but after calming myself down and experiencing it irl (in real life), I can safely say that it in fact does help. This is why I wanted to share this experience with all of you through my writing.
But, what is a paradox first of all? A paradox is by dictionary definition: a seemingly absurd or contradictory statement or proposition which when investigated may prove to be well founded or true. For instance, the paradox that exercising can help you build muscles and become stronger, even though in the process you are damaging and perhaps micro-tearing the muscles themselves. Doing an action X will supposedly produce a desired result Y, but one has to deal with result Z instead.
Why does this concern me and my life as a Christian though?
The Christian journey is often described as a beautiful struggle — a paradox that captures the essence of living a life of faith. This journey, while filled with trials and tribulations, is also marked by profound joy, hope, and a deep sense of purpose. The Bible offers wisdom and encouragement for navigating this path, reminding us that our struggles are not in vain but are a part of God's divine plan for our growth and sanctification. To better stay prepared to walk this Christian race with our fellow brethren and God, it serves us in best interests to identify The Christian Paradox and use it to our advantage, helping us to get a step closer to our final goal of eternal salvation in heaven.
After doing some research, I have found some examples of The Christian Paradox In action in the Bible:
Embracing Trials with Joy
In James 1:2-4, James, a bondservant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, encourages believers to "count it all joy...when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience."(NKJV) Paradoxical right? Indeed it is. We all know that trials and tribulations are troublesome and we would rather avoid it. However, this passage highlights the transformative power of trials. They are not merely obstacles to overcome but opportunities for growth and maturity. Through the trials and tribulations we endure, we are able to mould and shape our perseverance, and we develop a deeper, more resilient faith that reflects the character of Christ. It is not just a pitfall to failure, but a hidden stepping stone up to success.
Strength in Weakness
The Apostle Paul provides a powerful perspective on struggle in 2 Corinthians 12:9-10. He shares how he pleaded with the Lord to remove a thorn in his flesh, only to receive the response, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my strength is made perfect in weakness." Paul concludes, "Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me."(NKJV) Logically, hearing such a response in times of need is not what anyone of us would hope to hear. But, this Christian Paradox teaches us that our struggles can become the very place where God's strength is most evident. In our weaknesses, we are reminded of our dependence on God and His all-sufficient grace, and that He is the one to have brought us to where we are today. So never forget that.
The Refining Fire
Malachi 3:3 depicts God as a refiner and purifier of silver, seeking to refine and purify His people.
This image of the refining process speaks to the purpose behind our struggles. Just as silver is purified through intense heat, our faith and character are refined through the challenges we face. The end result is a faith that is more pure and steadfast, capable of reflecting God's glory more brilliantly. This fire is not a destructive fire, but a cleansing fire, refining us to grow closer to God in our day to day life.
Hope in Suffering
Romans 5:3-5 offers another perspective on the purpose of suffering: "We also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope. Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, who was given to us." (NKJV) Struggle is a bitter pill we all have to swallow. This passage assures us that our struggles are not meaningless. They are part of a divine process that builds our character and strengthens our hope—a hope rooted in the unshakeable love of God. It is this hope that helps us stay steadfast, and thus paradoxically keeps us closer to God and living a righteous Christian life.
The Eternal Perspective - Gaining from Losing
One of the most comforting truths for Christians is the fact that we can gain in losing, win in losing, thrive in losing. In the Bible, Mark 8:35 NKJV says, “For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me and for the gospel will save it.” Similarly, in Matthew 10:39 NKJV, “Whoever finds their life will lose it, and whoever loses their life for my sake will find it.” What does all this mean? Well, losing does not mean that we have completely lost. As Christians, willing to give up our physical wealth, possessions and riches for an eternal hope of salvation and the ability to go to heaven - that is the ultimate win everyone should aim for. Paradoxically, in losing and giving up what we currently have, we can attain an even greater reward of being with God and serving him.
The Christian way is indeed a beautiful struggle. It is a path marked by challenges and growth, weakness and divine strength, suffering and hope. As we navigate this journey, we can take heart in the promises of God's Word. Our struggles are not in vain. They are shaping us, refining us, and preparing us for an eternal glory that far outweighs any temporary hardship. Let us embrace this beautiful struggle with faith, perseverance, and the unwavering hope that comes from knowing we are deeply loved by God.
This is the Christian Paradox. And thank you for reading this article.
Ask Yourself:
How is embracing trials with joy paradoxical?
Why is the Christian way paradoxical and why is it important?
Do you want to know more about The Christian Paradox and not know how to?
Suggested Answers:
Trials usually cause anguish, pain and suffering. To be told to embrace trials with joy or even look forward to having it is paradoxical and probably masochistic.
The journey of a Christian is not a ‘walk in the park’ or a ‘bed of roses’ but will be marked with challenges along the way. However, such will shape us, refine us and help us prepare for glory in eternity. It is important because it shows that God’s wisdom is higher than man’s wisdom.
You may discuss with the writer or any of the Bible class teachers.