“Hope is like the cork to the net, which keeps the soul from sinking in despair; and fear, like the lead to the net, which keeps it from floating in presumption.” Thomas Watson.
Christianity is not a bed of roses, quite frankly and to the contrary, it is filled with thorns and trouble. Well, Jesus says, “And everything I’ve taught you is so that the peace which is in me will be in you and will give you great confidence as you rest in me. For in this unbelieving world you will experience trouble and sorrows, but you must be courageous, for I have conquered the world!” Read John 16:33 (TPT).
Now that we are aware troubles and sorrows are part of the Christian experience, why then do we allow ourselves to despair? Could it be that we have refused to serve the Lord with joy and gladness of heart? Or could it be that we do not know enough of the Scripture such that our foundation is not fully rooted in God’s Word? Whatever your response is, I want you to know, “Each test is an opportunity to trust Him more, for along with every trial God has provided for you a way of escape that will bring you out of it victoriously.” Read 1 Corinthians 10:13b (TPT). Can you see this? Your victory’s and successes are already secured in Christ.
If it is any comfort, Apostle Paul faced despair in his life and ministry, yet, he was able to deal with it through God’s Word and his perspective was one of forbearance. Look at how the Apostle viewed time of despair, “We view our slight, short-lived troubles in the light of eternity. We see our difficulties as the substance that produces for us an eternal, weighty glory far beyond all comparison because we don’t focus our attention on what is seen but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but the unseen realm is eternal.” Read 2 Corinthians 4:17 (TPT). For Apostle Paul, there was no time to wallow in self-pity and despair, because he was looking at the bigger picture and the ultimate goal of eternity.
My Father, thank You and I know whatever challenge is before me, You have equipped me with the spirit of boldness and of a sound mind, and for that, I am extremely grateful.
We write. You read. Be encouraged.
Kolumns 