“God Is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” (Psalm 46:1)
By Steve McShane
Have you ever been faced with long term adversity? I have. In 2010, I was a young professional elected to represent a district of nearly 30,000 very engaged citizens in our city.
I quickly learned that this position required a keen ability to listen, solve problems, and smile. Periodically, I would enjoy a major policy achievement or something very beneficial to our district, only to get barraged with negative attacks and angry citizens. In the last five or six years, personal attacks and criticism of the government just got stronger and more frequent. I spent many days and nights leaning on scripture and prayer.
One citizen called weekly with reports of litter or tree trimming in areas near his home. His intense and unjustified criticism was directed at me. Sadly, my experiences at Challenge Weekends that provided living examples of energy and inspiration began to be ruined by daily responsibilities that wore me down.
In many ways, all these attacks just made me better and stronger. These have enabled me to grow closer to God, and I’ve gained immeasurable self-understanding and faithfulness.
And just like Joseph in the Old Testament, I was being tested and tempted at the same time. We know God blesses those who are patient and obedient to him, so I drew strength from that knowledge. Ultimately, in May of 2024 I retired, amid a flurry of critical and negative attacks, and made a change in my career path to one that suits my strengths.
Pray
I am thankful, Lord, for the journey you have laid out for me. Help me to remember all the blessings you have poured out in every moment.
Reflect
Think about times when your responsibilities got ugly. Were you tempted to bite back at those who took a swipe at you?
Discuss
How did you keep your faith going when good times got difficult? What strategies can you employ to remember God’s faithfulness in all situations?
Steve McShane is past president of the Salinas Valley Chapter. He serves as director of development for the Bridge Restoration Ministry.