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“[we are] afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not despairing; 9 persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed;” 2 Corinthians 4:8-9
Adams’ sin bent every man, woman, and child toward the choice to sin (Romans 5:12). This means people will make choices that intentionally or unintentionally bring trouble to their lives. Your own choices bring trouble. Trouble is found everywhere—and you’re told to expect it. Jesus said, “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).
The apostle Paul experienced trouble. He was beaten, imprisoned, and lived knowing there were plenty of people who didn’t like him. When trouble came Paul could say he wasn’t distressed, didn’t despair, didn’t feel forsaken, and wasn’t destroyed. Some who had witnessed Paul’s distressing circumstances might have thought his words betrayed an advanced case of insanity.
The reason Paul could say these things is the same reason you can. Romans 8:28 gives you the perspective: “God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.”
Paul loved God and had been called into service. He had absolute assurance that the God who accompanied him to the storm brought an umbrella. Wise men realize that the toughest of times are temporary when compared to eternity and that God never leaves and never forsakes His own (Hebrews 13:5).
Adams’ sin bent every man, woman, and child toward the choice to sin (Romans 5:12). This means people will make choices that intentionally or unintentionally bring trouble to their lives. Your own choices bring trouble. Trouble is found everywhere—and you’re told to expect it. Jesus said, “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).
The apostle Paul experienced trouble. He was beaten, imprisoned, and lived knowing there were plenty of people who didn’t like him. When trouble came Paul could say he wasn’t distressed, didn’t despair, didn’t feel forsaken, and wasn’t destroyed. Some who had witnessed Paul’s distressing circumstances might have thought his words betrayed an advanced case of insanity.
The reason Paul could say these things is the same reason you can. Romans 8:28 gives you the perspective: “God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.”
Paul loved God and had been called into service. He had absolute assurance that the God who accompanied him to the storm brought an umbrella. Wise men realize that the toughest of times are temporary when compared to eternity and that God never leaves and never forsakes His own (Hebrews 13:5).
