PHILIPPIANS 3:13-14 Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, 14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.
There are many challenges for believers. Trials. Adversaries. Doubts. We're all occasionally compelled to give up. When it seems as though there is no hope remaining, the struggle becomes very great, and we question whether it is worthwhile to press on and keep our faith.
However, there is a goal that is incredibly valuable: eternal life with our great Lord. not only life, but close friendship.
Keep going by focusing on the target—God Himself!
1 CORINTHIANS 1:9 God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord.
Please take your time and read the following verses carefully.
1 PETER 5:7-10 Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you. 8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: 9 Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world. 10 But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you.
The reflections on these verses are limited by space, but it is important to note that suffering is brought on by your adversary, the devil, and that its objective is to undermine your faith.
Keep in mind that God only permits you to experience suffering for a brief period of time.
But, you object, "it's been a while already."
Actually, no. When you are going through trials, it feels like a long time, but afterward, it feels like a short time. When you think about it later, even a few years are nothing. Ask God to give you the capacity to observe things from Heaven.
But why does God let me experience any suffering at all?
Mainly because people make bad decisions. Conflict results in struggling. But God has faith in you! Why should He pull you out of the arena? God is confident that you will succeed and overcome with His grace and support.
What matters most is the final outcome. God will ensure a successful outcome.
SAY THIS: I'll continue to follow God. I won't give up or give in to my faith.
