II Corinthians 4:8-10; 16-17 "We are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed, we are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken, struck down, but not destroyed... Therefore we do not lose heart....For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory."
The Apostle Paul seemed born for trouble. He was a trouble maker when he persecuted the Church. After he was "born again", trouble for the gospel's sake was part of his amazing success. He was pursued, persecuted, perplexed with problems, hounded by Gentiles and Jews. None of this demoralized Paul nor destroyed his faith.
Paul accepted trouble as part of his Christian life. He was not surprised when he suffered for the gospel. Insults and indignities identified him with the despised and rejected One. When surrounded by trouble, he knew God was with him. When falsely accused, beaten and left for dead, Paul sensed the presence of Jesus.
Persecution against God's servants today increases under an aggressive spirit of anti-christ. Believers are in constant risk, even terrorized, for Jesus' sake. Pray for those who suffer. Fear not, but be prepared for trouble ahead.
You never know who's watching: The way you handle trouble today could be a challenge to those who look on. Dying for Jesus, whether from humiliation or mutilation, is an unforgettable act of love and faith before men and angels.
Prayer: Dear Lord, help me not to lose heart. Give me the long-range view on this present problem. I may have to die a little today as to what I feel are my rights, But I die today to live tomorrow. Help me to make trouble work for me a far greater glory. In Jesus' name. Amen.