Just as we have problems in our physical life, we also experience problems in our spiritual or new
life. Facing and conquering these difficulties cause us to grow and be strengthened, whether these problems are physical
or spiritual. As we grow in strength, we bring glory to God as He demonstrates His faithfulness and grace is sufficient for
every need (2 Cor. 12:9).
Some of the problems that are common in our new life are sin, temptation, suffering, knowing the will
of God and doubt.
A new believer must be especially wary of places, situations and times in which they may be vulnerable
to temptation. The best remedy to temptation is to be a growing Christian. The mind that is occupied with the things of the
Lord cannot at the same time susceptible to temptation.
Of all possible sins against God is self-will. This sin led to the fall of satan (Ia. 14:12-14), and
to be the root of Adam's transgression (Gen. 3:1/7). It is therefore of utmost importance that the child of God find His will
and perform it.
The dismissal of doubt and strengthening of faith are best accomplished by reading and understanding
the Word of God (Rom. 10:17). The Holy Spirit will convict the willing heart of its power. Growing in the Word produces faith;
reading and understanding the Word are like planting seeds of faith in your heart. They will bear the mature fruit of faith.
Sin:
What sin is - Ps. 51:2.
What sin does - Is. 59:2.
What should be done - Ps. 32:5.
Temptation:
By the world - 1 John 2:15.
By the flesh - Mark 14:38.
By satan - 1 Chr. 21:1.
Suffering:
Kinds of suffering - 1 Peter 3:17.
Purpose of suffering - Job 2:7.
Response to suffering - Job 1:21.
Examples of suffering - Jer. 37:15.
Knowing the Will of God:
Through the scriptures - 2 Kings 23:3.
Through prayer and fasting - Dan. 9:3-4.
Through submission to the Spirit - Is. 6:8.
Through circumstances and counsel - Prov. 24:6.
Doubt:
Occasions of doubt - Lam. 5:20.
Sources of doubt - Hab. 1:2.
Cure for doubt - 1 Kings 18:21.
