Because of the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold, but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved.
Matthew 24:12-13
As believers, we are going to face many trials as we see the return of Christ nearing.
Since His crucifixion, we’ve been awaiting his return.
We will face deception, hate, false witness and lies spewed at us. We are now dead center in the path of rampant sin. It’s paraded right before us. We’re almost forced to tolerate this, if we don’t, then we’re ridiculed.
But hold on, help is on the way, with a reward!
Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
Matthew 5:12
The one who conquers, I will grant him to sit with me on my throne, as I also conquered and sat down with my Father on his throne.
Revelation 3:21
“My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.”
2 Corinthians 12:9
Hardships come at us in many ways. Sickness, tragedy, lost jobs, divorce and persecution for one’s faith, are a few that come to mind.
As Believers, we shouldn’t be shocked when hardships come. Jesus did say;
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
John 16:33
“And you will be hated by all for My name’s sake. But he who endures to the end will be saved.”
Matthew 10:22
To endure this hardship does not mean we won’t be sad, scared, devastated, or even angry sometimes.
Having these emotions during hard times, is not bad. (In fact scripture tells us there is a season and time for everything.) Having these emotions during hard times only becomes bad when we allow them to take root in our lives and produce bitterness and hate.
To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven:
A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted;
A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up;
A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance.
Ecclesiastes 3:1-4
Our destiny is in complete control of a sovereign God who has promised He is working all things out for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose.
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”
Romans 8:28
Recently, I had a couple of devastating events in my life, back to back.
To be honest, I felt completely alone. I was devastated and angry all at once. I intentionally dove into scripture and prayer like I’ve never done before. (But some days, I just couldn’t)
The only place I found solace, was with Christ and that was even difficult some days.
God was showing me that he knew my anger and grief, so I couldn’t hide that from him. I then confessed that to him. I knew He was the only way around this anger and grief.
I am still struggling at this time, but I feel Gods presence around me, which makes it bearable.
I know for certain that God is a good and faithful Lord and that I can place my complete hope in Him. I may never understand why God would allow us to have to go through this tragic loss, but I know that He is a good, good Father, that I trust completely! .
By his grace alone, we can endure!
“And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.”
Galatians 6:9
For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.
Romans 8:18
Patient endurance is what you need now, so that you will continue to do God’s will. Then you will receive all that he has promised.
Hebrews 10:36
Many Blessings,
Connie
