Anyone out there without a challenge? If you are, you are going to coast to a "full stop". Your body is designed to fight disease and bacteria. Research shows that too much cleanliness and bacteria free living can cause our bodies to lose its natural immune system. Likewise, our lives must have challenges otherwise we lose our ability to progress. Paul speaks of his tribulations, and encourages the Ephesians to look beyond them.
Therefore I ask that you do not lose heart at my tribulations for you, which is your glory.
When we are doing right we can expect opposition triggered in the heavenlies. There is no point in getting angry at the human elements around us. They are not the source of the problem. Look at the dark spiritual forces that are influencing the oppression and opposition. When you face nothing then you have you to ask yourself whether you are doing the right thing for the Lord.
There is no fear when you face challenges. God is right beside us working His power in the situation. We see Him working in unique ways in each challenge.
Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.
Not facing a challenge? Review what you are doing. Maybe you need to do something different. Do not for a moment think that life is going to be a breeze as a follower of Jesus Christ.
But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you are blessed. “And do not be afraid of their threats, nor be troubled.” But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear; having a good conscience, that when they defame you as evildoers, those who revile your good conduct in Christ may be ashamed. For it is better, if it is the will of God, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil.
Father, help me hear your directions correctly and execute them well.
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