We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. 2 Corinthians 4:8
Paul, the author of the second letter to the church at Corinth, suffered beatings, imprisonment, shipwrecks, unceasing attacks and indignities as a result of his missionary work and aggressive evangelism. The One True Gospel of Jesus Christ wasn’t a popular message everywhere. For thirty years Paul lived under great persecution, but determined the Joy of His salvation was more than worth any human discomfort.
Pressure is part of the equation that creates a diamond. It is more often constructive rather than destructive. Perplexity is not hopelessness, just the state between seeking and finding the answer. Abuse and injustice are tragedies. When things go badly, the room empties and there you are, alone. Paul experienced all these things, but determined it was not going to be his end definition, nor yours.
Heaven is full of work worn hands, calloused feet and hearts once broken. They are there because they persevered. Every voice raised in praise testifies it was more than worth the temporary pain and grief of this life to achieve life eternal.
Happy Friday,
Gretchen