For Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong. (2 Cor. 12:10)
As I enjoyed the gorgeous nature and a cool breeze, I thought I glimpsed what looked like something falling on the road up ahead. My husband had seen it too, and wondered what had happened. When we had driven another mile or so, we saw that huge tree limbs had crashed to the ground, blocking the entire road. A group of drivers worked together to clear the way.
The occurrence reminded me of the past couple years when we had frequently faced obstacles in the form of health issues and natural disasters, among other things. At times, we had wondered why God allowed these hardships. At other times, we realized how blessed we were to have survived danger and overcome difficulty. We also experienced moments when the hardship drove us and our neighborhood to cry out to God and seek him more intensely.
Paul had suffered persecution and difficulties that most of us cannot even imagine. Yet, he was able to say he delighted in them. Also, he continued to persevere in work for God even though it was the reason behind many trials he faced. We, too, have a choice. Do we question the “why” behind problems God allows, or do we rely on his strength to get us through them? Are we discouraged by challenges or are we faithful to continue to do God’s will?
Joyfully continue doing God’s work even when you face hardships.
Caryl Aukerman is a wife, missionary, and mother of three, and has served with Global Partners in the country of Albania for over fifteen years.
© 2022 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
