We are hedged in (pressed) on every side [troubled and oppressed in every way], but not cramped or crushed; we suffer embarrassments and are perplexed and unable to find a way out, but not driven to despair; We are pursued (persecuted and hard driven), but not deserted [to stand alone]; we are struck down to the ground, but never struck out and destroyed; Always carrying about in the body the liability and exposure to the same putting to death that the Lord Jesus suffered, so that the [resurrection] life of Jesus also may be shown forth by and in our bodies.” 2 Corinthians 4:8-10 AMP
Most of the time when we go through challenges in life, the target of the enemy is to bring us to the place of despair and faint in our heart and mind so that we give up.
But God Almighty wants us to understand that in all we go through He is using what the devil is trying to do against us to Manifest His plan and purpose for our lives. This plan and purpose is the resurrection life of Jesus Christ to be manifested in our bodies.
That means everything we go through in life we are not alone in our innermost being though we feel alone outwardly. God is with us working out His best in our lives.
The key in trials and persecutions is to yield to the Holy Spirit in us by studying our word and fellowship in prayer and also knowing that God’s ability in us is conforming us to the image of His son Jesus Christ.
For our light, momentary affliction (this slight distress of the passing hour) is ever more and more abundantly preparing and producing and achieving for us an everlasting weight of glory [beyond all measure, excessively surpassing all comparisons and all calculations, a vast and transcendent glory and blessedness never to cease!],” 2 Corinthians 4:17 AMP
God’s glory is being worked out in us and through us in all test, trials and persecutions that comes our way. So we are not moved. God wants us to stand firm and keep fastening your heart and mind on Jesus through the power of the Holy Spirit in us and also hold fast to the confession of your faith in Christ. I guarantee you in Jesus Christ mighty name: The devil will flee from you.
Be well balanced (temperate, sober of mind), be vigilant and cautious at all times; for that enemy of yours, the devil, roams around like a lion roaring [in fierce hunger], seeking someone to seize upon and devour. Withstand him; be firm in faith [against his onset–rooted, established, strong, immovable, and determined], knowing that the same (identical) sufferings are appointed to your brotherhood (the whole body of Christians) throughout the world.” 1 Peter 5:8-9 AMP
Let’s pray together:
Heavenly Father, I thank You for Your word. Help me by Your Spirit endure and to prevail in all that I am going through in Jesus Christ mighty name. Amen.