Living the Christian life does not mean we will “live happily ever after without a care in the world.” In fact, choosing to follow Jesus may lead us into more conflict and more difficulties. This is because the meaning of life is not in ease and comfort but in service and sacrifice. Here are some New Testament passages where the writers are encouraging the churches in the first century.
PRAYER
Thank you, O God, for guiding us through the difficult challenges of life. Help me to grow stronger and to live more courageously in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Monday – Romans 5:1-5
The Apostle Paul had seen his share of challenges. He knew what affliction meant in anyone’s dictionary. He glimpsed how God is able to use difficulties to create something more valuable. Endurance produces what? Have you experienced this? What in God’s view could be the value of the difficulties you face now?
Tuesday – Hebrews 11:32-12:2
This is sometimes called the Hebrew Hall of Fame. Many of the heroes of the faith are lifted up as inspirational examples for all of us. What haunts me is vss 39 & 40. Some kept the faith even when they did not receive blessing in this life so I could be blessed even more. How can my present difficulties be used by God to bless someone yet to come … even more?
NEXT Steps Scripture & Prayer Guide
Living the Christian life does not mean we will “live happily ever after without a care in the world.” In fact, choosing to follow Jesus may lead us into more conflict and more difficulties. This is because the meaning of life is not in ease and comfort but in service and sacrifice. Here are some New Testament passages where the writers are encouraging the churches in the first century.
PRAYER
Thank you, O God, for guiding us through the difficult challenges of life. Help me to grow stronger and to live more courageously in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Monday – Romans 5:1-5
The Apostle Paul had seen his share of challenges. He knew what affliction meant in anyone’s dictionary. He glimpsed how God is able to use difficulties to create something more valuable. Endurance produces what? Have you experienced this? What in God’s view could be the value of the difficulties you face now?
Tuesday – Hebrews 11:32-12:2
This is sometimes called the Hebrew Hall of Fame. Many of the heroes of the faith are lifted up as inspirational examples for all of us. What haunts me is vss 39 & 40. Some kept the faith even when they did not receive blessing in this life so I could be blessed even more. How can my present difficulties be used by God to bless someone yet to come … even more?
Wednesday – 1 Peter 1:3-9
Peter uses the image of gold that becomes more pure, and therefore, more valuable when it is refined by fire. The challenges we face can refine our character, our wisdom, and our faith into something more valuable than ever. How are the challenges you are facing growing something valuable within you? Laura Story after almost losing her husband to a brain tumor wrote the song, “Blessings.” She asks, “What if your blessings come through raindrops?”
Thursday – 2 Timothy 4:1-8
Quite likely Paul is in prison as he writes this. Perhaps he senses that his life is drawing to an end. He is urging young Timothy to keep the faith, no matter the hardship. Paul has “fought the good fight, finished the race, and kept the faith.” So Paul anticipates a crown like the winners of an Olympic event. How are you fighting the good fight, running the race, and keeping the faith?
Friday – 2 Thessalonians 2:13-17
Stand firm! You have been called, equipped, and strengthened to proclaim the gospel of salvation. Stand firm on that faith. Why? Because there is always opposition to the truth. Notice that in verse 17, strength and encouragement come to us in every good work and word – not before, not in spite of, but in the work. How is God inviting you to stand firm?
Saturday – 2 Corinthians 4:7-18
One of my favorite passages: Paul has endured many difficulties and troubles; yet he sees the resurrection power of God at work. He focuses on what is yet unseen – true faith at work. Where is your focus? How is God using your tests to produce something better?