We are made strong in our struggles. We as servants of the Lord must understand that there is nothing in this world that can compare to the glory of the eternal life that God prepared and promised us.           2 Corinthians 4: 17-18 says this temporary life is a light affliction. Romans 8: 18 will also give use hope in a greater cause. We should remember to set our hearts on the things above (Colossians 3:2). It’s OK to ask for the desires of our hearts, but try not to put your trust on those things or in those individuals. Even Psalms 118: 8 says trust no man. I had to remember a few things in my struggles and understand that my trials and tribulations were for my good. This may be hard to say for most people because it is something we don’t want to deal with, and that is combating against struggles, afflictions, drama, burdens, infirmities, lack of necessities, you name it; people just don’t want to deal with these added attractions of life. My understanding came from several passages of the bible starting with 1 Corinthians 12:9. Through my weakness was the only way God’s strength was made perfect. Now I understand what fasting and praying is all about. By afflicting our souls we are drawn to the lord in our time of sincerity and humility.

Romans 5: 3-5 tell us we are to glory in our tribulations and struggles; this brings about the attributes of hope. When I read James 1: 2-4 I ask the Lord, why I had to count it joy when I go through temptations. Well, it strengthens faith that we may have more patience, among other attributes as well. Therefore, be of good cheer as written in John 16: 33. Romans 8: 35-36 was on my mind as well. I thought to myself, as Christ suffered so shall we at the appointed times. Our struggle now is nothing comparable to what the bible passage states- “we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.” The Lord was set up to be a sheep for the slaughter in Isaiah 53. Jesus also told use we must suffer with Him if we are to be joint-heirs in Christ, mentioned in Romans 8: 17-18. 1 Corinthians 15: 53-54, 58 will let us know that our reward is immortality. Are we ready for this understanding? Are we ready to claim our prize in glory?

2 Peter 1 and 5 will show us a few attributes in being diligent in the faith. We see virtue, knowledge, temperance, patience, godliness, brotherly kindness, and love. We get these attributes by stead fasting in morals which we have established through faith in Jesus and our integrity in Christ is acceptable to God. Much of the world ask the question, is there a God, if so, why are we suffering. Many people lean toward their own understanding when they doubt the All-mighty God. When afflictions do come on us did you know that’s when to trust in Him even more? That’s the hardest thing to do for most of us; trusting in the Lord during our times of struggles. How can we understand the knowledge of God? Be humble and of a contrite spirit (Psalms 34: 18) also, lean not toward your own understanding (Romans 10: 1-3). Most importantly we don’t want to say we love God and our actions are not in Him (Matthew 15:8-9).

Let’s look at some encouraging passages of the bible and introduce ourselves to understanding God’s word. Hebrews 12: 5-11 shows us that the Lord love those He chastise. Psalms 103: 13 reminds us we still have a father figure in our lives. John 4:23-24 directs us to worship our spiritual Father, which is in heaven. I remember I use to get chastise by my parents for something I did wrong. I can say it was for my good. This present time, I see something even more clearly. If I didn’t do nothing wrong, and I really examine myself and still receive chastisement, it would be a grooming stage for me just to discourage me from doing wrong later on. By the way, we should know the consequences for disobedience.

Look at the bright side of things, Isaiah 26:3 wants us to keep our minds on him and He will keep you in perfect peace. We can do that by faith (Romans 10:17). Therefore, stay in the word and remember the scripture in Joshua 1:8. Romans 12 and 9 tell us to let love be without dissimulation. That simply means don’t let your situations, trial and tribulations change your love for Christ Jesus, or your brethren.

Grace & Peace

Brother Nate