If you're going through hell, keep going. -Winston Churchill
Any normal person has likely made this declaration numerous times throughout life. A difficulty arises in your marriage. There are seemingly endless conflicts in your family. Problems at church deflate you. Problems pile up at work. These and many other bumps in the road oftentimes will drive us to the breaking point (or so we think).
I have found myself at this point on more than one occasion. Such is life. Someone once asked me if I ever consider quitting the ministry. They were surprised when I responded at least a couple of times per month. You have likely entertained such thought when going through a rough patch in your marriage. Or perhaps while dealing with a child that questions every boundary that you try to set for her well-being. We won’t even delve into the ‘stuff’ that can arise with church problems.
As some of you might be aware, I have been going through a particularly difficult time with my secular job. Namely, that it will end in a couple of months due to funding issues. Anyone who has been through similar circumstances can attest to the roller coaster of emotions that comes with this news. There have been points along this particular journey that I have wanted to throw in the towel.
The Lord reminded me of a simple, yet profound truth this weekend that provided some much needed encouragement.
The good things in life are usually hard.
The important things in life are hard, but they are good. Marriage is difficult, is it not? But it is good. Dealing with personalities and problems in the house of the Lord is hard, but the blessings are great. The trials of raising kids are at times almost unbearable, but watching them learn and grow as individuals is awesome. See what I mean? Life is hard, but it is good….
Remember Job? Life was extremely hard for him. Yet, in the midst of his incredible trials he proclaimed this truth.
Job 23:10 - But he knoweth the way that I take: when he hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold.
The Apostle Paul suffered many disappointments in his ministry and readily acknowledged such. But he was also inspired to write of the good that awaited him at the end of life’s trials.
2Ti 4:18 - And the Lord shall deliver me from every evil work, and will preserve me unto his heavenly kingdom: to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.
Life is hard, but it is good. Remember that when you encounter the difficulties of life that will inevitably occur this week. We all have them! If you find yourself in this position remember that you are in good company and that God’s grace is sufficient for every trial of life.
I was thankful for this reminder. I hope that you are too!
Have a wonderful week!
