While cleaning my long-neglected backyard last week, I unknowingly disturbed a bundle of sticks apparently from my neighbor’s tree. Only later did I realize this act had provoked a wasp(s), resulting in over fourteen stings. I did not realize until later how bad it was; my stomach was bloated. After a quick Google search, I discovered this can be a reaction to a wasp sting. With more research, I discovered that wasp venom can also kill cancer cells, reduce joint inflammation, and fight antibiotic-resistant bacteria. I am not sure if that would be true for me, and I would have preferred to avoid the stings. The wasp venom created a sharp, burning sensation, making it difficult to sleep for a few nights, as my body was forced to react and heal.
Sometimes we experience a spiritual shock that forces us to address toxic energies or false beliefs we might have. Whether it is the sting of disappointment in a relationship, a conflict, or an event that derails your plans for the future, the shock forces change. This kind of trial is not wasted. As James writes, “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything” (James 1:2-4).
The sting of a trial or difficulty forces us to seek the Lord. When we are stung by such events, we may find ourselves with nowhere else to turn but to look to God and depend on him. In these situations, we grow in trust that He is sovereign over all circumstances and events in our lives. There are practical ways to seek God when we face these difficulties. Turning to prayer is one of the most direct ways to connect with Him, honestly sharing our fears and pains.
What is most comforting in our trials is that, if we are followers of Christ, the greatest sting of all no longer has power over us. “O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting? The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. (I Corinthians 15:55-57) Death has been defeated, and through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, it is powerless.
Paul mocked death, saying, “Where is your sting?” This shifts believers’ emotional reality from dreading the unknown to absolute certainty of eternal life. Christ won the ultimate victory; earthly suffering and spiritual labor are not in vain. When trials seem insurmountable, trust that God has defeated your greatest enemy, and victory is assured, which gives you hope and perseverance for this day.
