The Courage to Keep Going in Times of Suffering – Beloved Women – July 6, 2020
READ: “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.” (Romans 8:28 ESV)
TODAY’S ENCOURAGEMENT: When challenges come in our lives, it’s easy to want to quit. The hardships of life have a way of diminishing our courage and convince us the best thing to do is to give up. Before you do, consider this: the very flames King Nebuchadnezzar used to try to kill Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego are the same flames that destroyed the shackles meant to hold them hostage, while not harming a single hair on their heads. The thorn in Paul’s side meant to weaken him, was the same thing that caused the power of God to rest on him. The crucifixion that meant to humiliate and kill Jesus was the very situation that afforded eternal life to all who would believe in Him, and gave Christ all authority in heaven and earth.
Sometimes the opposition, failure, lack, weakness, hurt, suffering, detours, and disappointment that we face in life are not signs that we’re doing something wrong, as we’re commonly led to believe. It’s not a sign that we need to stop or quit while we’re ahead. I want you to think about the thing you're avoiding because it seems too hard, you feel too weak, or there just aren't enough resources. Now I want you to consider that maybe your lack is the sign this is what you should be going for and investing in instead of shrinking back in timidity. God’s Word reminds us that all things (not some things) are working together for our good. Sometimes our suffering means we’re doing life right. It’s the very sign that we should keep going.
PRAY: Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for never leaving me and for ordering all of my steps. When I walk into challenges, I pray for the faith and strength to continue to cling to You. In Jesus Christ’s Name, I pray, Amen.
REFLECT: How have you seen God work in your life even while you were facing a challenge?
CONNECT: Find more encouragement from Christina Patterson here. Sign up for free weekly video Bible Studies from Christina here.
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© 2020 by Christina Patterson. All rights reserved.
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