Have you ever regarded hardships as evidence of the truthfulness of God’s word? Jesus did say we would suffer many troubles (John 16:33). What if the very tribulations that cause us to grow weary could become a source of great encouragement?

Paul knew firsthand the struggles of living in a fallen world. Prior to seeing the conversion of a very large number won to Christ, he had been beaten and left for dead (Acts 14:19). In other scriptures, he tells of being pelted with stones, three times shipwrecked, in danger of his fellow Jews as well as the Gentiles, and many other hardships (2 Corinthians 11:25-26). In such times, Paul knew it would be tempting to grow weary of living the Christian life and to become faint hearted. But, Paul also knew the rest of the story. He knew God’s promise that he would reap the benefits of remaining true to living out the gospel if he endured (Galatians 6:9).

Believers today also live in a world where we are increasingly the victims of hate or contempt. We are often viewed as narrow minded and judgmental by the very people with whom we desire to share the gospel. And, it seems the culture is impacting us, the church, more than we, the church, are impacting the culture. Therefore, when you suffer the hardships of this life, let them be a reminder that God is true to all His word, and be encouraged, through Paul’s example, to remain committed to the faith in the face of tribulations.

Father, may we not grow weary of well doing in the face of hardships, but remain steadfast, unmovable, abounding in the work of the Lord. Amen

Go deeper — If you are feeling overwhelmed by your present hardship, resist the urge to isolate yourself. Tell someone about it. You can fill out the form below and one of our mentors will connect with you soon to listen and to pray for you.



Tags: Acts Acts 14
Photo Credit: Nick Tong