- Joined
- Apr 25, 2006
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- 18,404
No Pain No Gain
'...those who were scattered went everywhere preaching the word.' Acts 8:4
As we read through the New Testament we see the young church exploding with growth. They were obviously doing something right. Did they have great worship leaders that played guitars? Did they have nice buildings with comfy seats? Did they podcast their sermons around the world on iTunes? Actually, no to all those. The crazy thing is that the Bible shows us how it was in times of persecution (agro, intimidation, prejudice and violence) that the church grew most quickly. It's a powerful reminder that the bad times, not just the good ones, cause us to grow.
Even though they don't know it some of the people who give you a hard time for being a Christian can help you out without even it. As you stand your ground your faith-muscle gets stronger. Like Joseph, you can look back years later and say, '...you meant evil against me; but God meant it for good...' (Genesis 50:20 NKJV).
If God lets you to go through a tough time then it must be for your good or for the good of others through your example. Understanding this takes you deeper in your walk with God. So, whether the battle is over your family, your education, your health, or your friendships, expect three things:
1) the closer you get to victory the more intense the battle;
2) what matters isn't your comfort but your calling;
3) God is totally on your side, so keep fighting!
written by Bob Gass
'...those who were scattered went everywhere preaching the word.' Acts 8:4
As we read through the New Testament we see the young church exploding with growth. They were obviously doing something right. Did they have great worship leaders that played guitars? Did they have nice buildings with comfy seats? Did they podcast their sermons around the world on iTunes? Actually, no to all those. The crazy thing is that the Bible shows us how it was in times of persecution (agro, intimidation, prejudice and violence) that the church grew most quickly. It's a powerful reminder that the bad times, not just the good ones, cause us to grow.
Even though they don't know it some of the people who give you a hard time for being a Christian can help you out without even it. As you stand your ground your faith-muscle gets stronger. Like Joseph, you can look back years later and say, '...you meant evil against me; but God meant it for good...' (Genesis 50:20 NKJV).
If God lets you to go through a tough time then it must be for your good or for the good of others through your example. Understanding this takes you deeper in your walk with God. So, whether the battle is over your family, your education, your health, or your friendships, expect three things:
1) the closer you get to victory the more intense the battle;
2) what matters isn't your comfort but your calling;
3) God is totally on your side, so keep fighting!
written by Bob Gass
