If you’re going through a difficult time right now, let Paul’s words encourage you. ‘We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.’ (2 Corinthians 4:8–9 NIV)

Who was Paul talking to? Followers of Christ who were having a rough time. Here is what he told them: ‘We are not discouraged. No, even if outwardly we are wearing out, inwardly we are being renewed each and every day. This light, temporary nature of our suffering is producing for us an everlasting weight of glory.’ (2 Corinthians 4:15–17 ISV)

When you’re under pressure, your faith grows—and God knows exactly how much pressure to apply! He will let you get to:

(1) a place where you’re out of answers and your resources seem depleted;

(2) a place where you’re tired of Satan stealing what you know God promised you; and

(3) a place where you’re no longer willing to let other people’s opinions control you.

(Remember, with God there are no hopeless situations, just people who have grown hopeless about them.) It’s when there is nothing more you can do that you start trusting God to do the impossible. As Paul says, ‘This slight distress of the passing hour.’ (2 Corinthians 4:17 AMPC)

The crisis you’re experiencing may be a blessing in disguise; an opportunity to experience God’s ‘unfolding grace’ and a greater degree of His power at work in your life.