Why You Don't Have To Lose Heart

by HJS

Paul wrote, "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). What Paul faced would have sent the average person either into depression or to flight. But Paul not only took it in stride, he seemed to grow with it.

How could Paul be under such tremendous pressure and stay on top of things? What did Paul know that we don't?

First, Paul knew that trials accomplish the purpose of God. Peter wrote, "Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed" (1 Peter 4:12-13).

Second, Paul had confidence that God would sustain him in times of great difficulty. Take note of Isaiah 43 where God says, "when you go through the waters, I will be with you." It was a foregone conclusion that in the world we will face persecution.

Third, Paul could face trouble because he knew we are residents of an invisible kingdom that cannot be shaken or destroyed. Hebrews 12:28 says, "Therefore since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe!"

Finally, Paul also knew that we have a home in heaven. Paul wrote, "Now we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands" (2 Corinthians 5:1).

Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.  2 CORINTHIANS 4:16-17