Getting Through It
Be Strong, Be Well — Thursday, July 8, 2021
When we get caught in trying and difficult circumstances, we tend to think there must be a quick and easy way out. We may choose to do nothing, hoping it will pass. We will have to deal with it and go through it, more than likely, regardless of how difficult it may be. In the end, we will see it was necessary, and even profitable, to go through it. If only we had started earlier instead of delaying the inevitable. Plus, this doesn’t mean the problem has gone away. We may have to learn how to deal with it.
As we have seen before in 1 Peter 1:6–7, “In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ.” We need to read James 1:2-4 as well.
Paul told us of his own experience with a difficult situation that didn’t go away. The lesson he learned and his conclusion are amazing. “And lest I should be exalted above measure by the abundance of the revelations, a thorn in the flesh was given to me, a messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I be exalted above measure. Concerning this thing, I pleaded with the Lord three times that it might depart from me. And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore most gladly, I will rather boast in my infirmities that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ’s sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong” (2 Corinthians 12:7-10).
Paul gives us some great advice in Philippians four. “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things. (13) I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me (6–8, 13).
Whatever the day may bring, no matter the difficulties we face, we live with confidence and peace of mind, knowing we can do everything through Christ who continues to stand with us and strengthen us. —Chris