Yes, pressure brings repentance using stress to reveal problems with our character. Look at what COVID-19 has done for us. Most of us are feeling pressure to whine, complain, be rude, give up, or act obnoxious. If our character is mature and fruitful, our reaction is to seek ways to help others in this tough time, and to seek the Lord who is the only one with a plan and the power to bring it to pass.

But this is the purpose of tribulation—to reveal our character. The word tribulation means pressure, Biblically. Jesus told us it would be part of our life. “I have told you these things so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But be of good cheer. I have overcome the world.” John 16:33 MEV

A pandemic is an excellent source of tribulation

We all seem to be under pressure at levels which are uncommon. So, are you seeing that pressure brings repentance using stress to reveal problems with your character? A pandemic has given us time to take a good look at who we really are.

But we need to allow that to work in our lives. Some don’t. The levels of alcohol and drug use have risen substantially. So, why does this work differently in believers? Because we know who’s in charge and that His plans are good. Therefore, we can be at peace and use the free time away from the normal stresses of our life. God will meet our needs—thank Him vigorously that this is true.

Is it painful? Often it is. Seeing flaws in our lives is not pleasant. For example, realizing how self-centered I am goes far beyond embarrassment and into shame. I need help, but I must repent to receive it. Thank you, Jesus, that you always respond with love and acceptance. Thank you, Lord, for providing the power within us to truly change.

Yes, pressure brings repentance using stress to get our attention

How are you responding? I’m turning to Jesus and asking Him to reveal my sin, so I can repent and be free from it. Will anyone notice? I don’t care. I only care that Jesus is pleased. He has shown me many things large and small which are not acceptable in a believer. I have repented. It doesn’t matter that you know what the problems are. Yours are different.

All you need to know is that Jesus is always faithful and has the power to change you and make you clean.