I just started working through Beth Moore’s, “Living Beyond Yourself” Bible study, which is about the Holy Spirit living in you. Page one is titled, “Many Hardships” and follows some of Paul’s journey in Acts.
Acts 14:22
“… Strengthening the disciples and encouraging them to remain true to the faith. ‘We must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God,’ they said.”
Near the end of today’s lesson is a quote from John Stam from 1932:
“Let us remind ourselves that the Great Commission was never qualified by clauses calling for advance only if funds were plentiful and no hardship or self-denial involved. On the contraary, we ar etold to expect tribulation and even persecution, but with it victory in Christ.”
John Stam was imprisoned in China after being a missionary there. Eventually, his wife was too. His son grew up and followed in preaching the word and also in imprisonment. And years later, his son also followed! If that’s not inspiring… if that’s not a little perspective on your suffering, then I don’t know what is! Somehow, after reading today’s study, my joy is restored, even as my boys are months away from coming home.
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I should say that I love this post because we just studied some of 1 and 2 Timothy at our ladies’ bible study and that word, “suffering”, came up OFTEN. It was a huge encouragement to me to prepare for circumstances and happenings that are NOT comfortable or pleasant, and to get ready to embrace suffering or hardships as a part of what to expect in following Christ. Not a pleasant thought to dwell on, but I’d rather dwell on it now and prepare for it, than to be overwhelmed and unable to grasp at hope when whatever trials and tribulations my life has come.
Glad you’re feeling encouraged about your boys. I sure feel the expectancy rising for meeting them!! It’s like I just realized my sister is pregnant with twins! Eeeee!!! Praying for patience and peace as you wait for your delivery date, sister!
(the delivery date that only the Father knows!) 😉