Opportunity in Trial

In the eighth chapter of the book of Acts, we read of the persecution of the early church by Saul of Tarsus. After the martyrdom of Stephen we read:
And there arose on that day a great persecution against the church in Jerusalem, and they were all scattered throughout the regions of Judea and Samaria, except the apostles. (Acts 8:1 ESV)
These early followers of Christ suddenly found themselves at great risk; their lives in danger. So they were forced to change their way of life, leaving their homes - everything was suddenly different!
It was an inconvenience. No, something more... It was a trial. No, something more than that...
It was an opportunity.
God's people were forced out of their comfort zone and had to deal with new situations. And the Word of God spread like wildfire. Like He promised it would. It spread from Jerusalem to all Judea, and then to Samaria. And then, it spread to the whole world.
Why? Because Christians were forced to change their situation by a sovereign God Who worked all things for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose. They saw it as a trial - God used it as an opportunity.
What about us?
Well, we find ourselves in a situation - facing a trial. Some of us are at great risk; our very lives in danger. We have all been (at least temporarily) forced to change our way of life. Everything is suddenly different from what it was even a week ago.
We have an opportunity. Both the Bible and history prove out the fact that when the world at large is facing trial, the Word of God spreads more effectively.
We have an opportunity to show the love of God - by helping those in the most need, maybe those family members who have not yet come to know Christ, or maybe the people right next door to us whose names we have neglected to learn. Reach out and offer what they need.
We have an opportunity to show the power of God - by persevering under trial and confidently living for God, showing those who are afraid that there is One Who can take their every fear away. Live boldly Christian while the world lives in fear.
We have an opportunity to share the salvation of God - by pointing to the great Healer Who can heal body and soul. Tell people about Jesus.
People are looking for hope. They are looking for purpose. They are willing to be prayed for and prayed with right now. They are willing to hear why we believe in a greater purpose through a time such as this. They are willing. And our God is willing to save.
Are we willing to take advantage of this opportunity?

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