Though Paul may have “despaired even of life” (2 Corinthians 1:8), he believed God would sustain him during difficult seasons. As Jesus taught, divine strength can overcome worldly tribulations (John 16:33). That isn’t to say believers can avoid all sorrow and pain, but we know the Lord will meet our needs in every heartache and trial (Philippians 4:19). Our faith grows stronger when we trust Him in times of affliction.
Commentary from the In Touch devotional by Charles Stanley, May 27, 2022.
Psalm 17
We’ll emerge from our prayer time with renewed vigor and confidence if, instead of merely concentrating on our most pressing difficulty, we acknowledge God’s capability to handle anything and everything that comes our way. Our faithful Father is always here for us. We can be certain He will show us how to face our difficulties, whether through another person, His Word, or His voice in our heart.
Commentary from the In Touch devotional by Charles Stanley, June 25, 2022.
The kingdom of God-the sphere of salvation, the gracious domain of divine rule over believers’ hearts.
Commentary from the MacArthur study Bible, notes for Acts 1:3.
Profiting from Perseverance
People can be easily discouraged in the face of adversity-like John Mark, the cousin of Barnabas, who accompanied Paul and Barnabas at the start of their first missionary journey. As they prepared to enter the difficult region of Asia Minor, John Mark left and returned to Jerusalem. John Mark had not yet learned that “tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope.”
If you are thinking of quitting something that is difficult, think of the character and hope you will forfeit if you do.
“Genius, that power that dazzles mortal eyes,
Is oft but perseverance in disguise.” Henry Austin
Commentary from the Pathways devotional, by David Jeremiah, May 18.
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