Hardships

Through hardships we enter the kingdom of God... not exactly what I wanted to read first thing in the morning...

Acts 14:22 AMPC

Establishing and strengthening the souls and the hearts of the disciples, urging and warning and encouraging them to stand firm in the faith, and [telling them] that it is through many hardships and tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God.

Living for Jesus is not a bowl of cherries, or, if it is, lots are very sour!

Paul says here that it is through MANY hardships and trials that we must enter the kingdom of God.

He knew what he was talking about.

Just a brief scan of the book of Acts shows what happens to anyone determined to live for Jesus.

So I shouldn't be at all surprised when tough situations arise in life.

1 Peter 4:12 AMPC

Beloved, do not be amazed and bewildered at the fiery ordeal which is taking place to test your quality, as though something strange (unusual and alien to you and your position) were befalling you.

But, like so many others before me, I DO get surprised when hard things happen.

That's exactly why Jesus warned his disciples [like you and me] of these issues before going to the Cross:

John 16:33 AMPC

I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have [perfect] peace and confidence. In the world you have tribulation and trials and distress and frustration; but be of good cheer [take courage; be confident, certain, undaunted]! For I have overcome the world. [I have deprived it of power to harm you and have conquered it for you.]

Reading this, why do I still whittle and worry my way through trials? Jesus said: "Cheer up, when these things happen!" Sometimes I don't understand my contrary nature.

Just because I'm promised trials, it's not an excuse to trudge through life expecting the worst! No way! But it should garrison my heart against despair - to KNOW that God can turn the hardships into vessels for His Kingdom.

It never ceases to amaze me how birds use high winds to glide effortless in the sky. Especially the seagulls, they seem to just spread their wings and away they go, even enjoying the ride!

In the same way, maybe that "wind of adversity" is designed to blow me right into the harbour of Jesus' amazing grace.

Through many dangers, toils, and snares, I have already come; ’Tis grace hath brought me safe thus far, And grace will lead me home.

Question:

How can my present challenges be vessels for God's glory?