Some have said that God’s people should never have to face any kinds of problems. A great concept, but reality is quick to teach otherwise.
Jesus himself said we would have trouble, but he did not leave us without hope! “—in this world you will have trouble. But take heart, I have overcome the world!” (John 16:33)
The apostle Paul said this treasure of strength in Christ is put in “jars of clay” (us!) so that all may see God’s power. When hard times come, sometimes God does, by some miraculous means, deliver us! But, most often, he keeps us THROUGH the troubles of life.
The world watches when a Christian goes through a difficult time. They see when we are “hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair—“. The world sees the light of God’s grace through us in the midst of crisis.
Being victorious doesn’t mean we never hurt or cry. The light of God’s presence in our life gives us the reassurance of the Holy Spirit. Even in the midst of the storm, God is there.
Peace comes when we acknowledge that God is wise and He does all things well; regardless of circumstances. (John 14:27) The world can’t understand peace like that; but they can see it in Christ’s light in us.
Whatever your circumstances, be convinced, as Paul was, that God is able to keep that which you have committed to him (II Tim. 1:12) and that everything will be ok. (Romans 8:28) Make sure that in today’s trials, the world sees the light of Christ, God’s “treasure” in your earthen vessel!
II Corinthians 4:7-11 “But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all surpassing power is from God and not from us. We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.”