Encouragement from Sarah Maurer
It seems as though many of us have been dealing with and going through issues that test out character and perseverance. Things that either seem overwhelming or daunting or an ongoing process that seems like it’s never going to end at times. Well, whatever the struggle or trial we all my facing, we can take courage in knowing that God is going to use it somehow. It may even be years down the
road when we eventually realize that during those difficult times God was preparing and refining us to accomplish things that lie ahead. “Therefore do not lose heart, but though our outer man is decaying, yet our inner man is being renewed day by day. For momentary affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison.” (2 Cor. 4:16-17). It’s essential as believers to keep persevering no matter what the cost and through these seasons of life we can take comforting in knowing that it’s building up our character in Him. “…knowing that tribulation brings perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope” (Romans 5:3).
And although many of life’s most important lessons are painful to learn and endure, they’re are also the one’s that are worth the most in the end and sweetest to enjoy. “Knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing” (James 1:3-4). As a result, it’s crucial to keep our focus on Christ
and from Him gather the strength to keep pressing on. “…forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ
Jesus” (Phil. 1:13-14).
Therefore, as we all continue to journey together towards spiritual maturity and growth, we need to be on guard of the enemy’s attack that can easily blind and cripple us in our own fear, doubt, and anxiety. And to take courage in knowing we are set free in Christ to run life’s race with all perseverance and hope. “Let us also lay aside every weight and sin that so easily entangles us, and
let us run with endurance the race that is set before us” (Hebrews 12:1). So whatever circumstance you’re in remember that if God brings you to it, He’ll bring you through it. Praying as we wrap up another week we can lift up one another in both prayer and encouragement.
Sarah Maurer
