"That is why, in Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong" ~ 2 Corinthians 12:10, NIV
I have learned that the Christian life involves hard work. It requires us to give up anything that will get in the way of our relationship with God, to run the race of life patiently, and to fight sin with the power of the Holy Spirit. To follow Jesus does not mean that we will not face conflict or struggle in the race. Believers and non-believers alike will face hardships and discouragement, but it is how we respond to those circumstances that will set us apart from those who don't know God.
When we choose to live for Christ, we become ambassadors for Him and the way we live our lives will speak volumes to those around us. The way we live and treat others will be a testimony of God's work in our lives and in our hearts. Others will follow our example, particularly those closest to us (our children, spouses, family, friends) and we have a responsibility to them if we are living for Christ, as we claim to be.
The way we respond to and deal with struggles and discouragement will demonstrate our Christian faith and character. We will be able to accomplish and endure anything as we follow Jesus and draw on His strength. Then we can use our growing strength to set a example for, help, and encourage those around us who may be weak and struggling.
We can speak volumes to others without having to say a word. The way we live and respond to the circumstances in our lives will speak volumes to those around us and even to those watching from a distance. We never know how our gestures and our actions will affect someone. Our actions could be a blessing or a discouragement to others.
No matter what you are going through today, believe that you can and will endure all things through Christ. As you trust Jesus and draw on His strength, make it a point to be a blessing to someone today.
Dear Lord, please help me to be a blessing to others and to live in a way that will speak volumes about You to those around me. Thank you for being the source of my strength, courage, and endurance. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
POWER VERSES
Acts 14: 22, NIV ~ "We must go through many hardships to enter the Kingdom of God"
2 Corinthians 12: 10, NIV ~ "That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong"
2 Corinthians 6: 4, NIV ~ "As servants of God we commend ourselves in every way: in great endurance, in troubles, hardships and distresses..."
