Troubled on Every Side, Yet not Distressed

We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair (2 Cor. 4:8 KJV)

The Apostle Paul recounts his experience as a believer and as an Apostle in the verse above. He said they were troubled on every side, that is, afflicted in every way, but not crushed. They were perplexed but not in despair. This is because there was a supernatural power that worked in them to sustain them in times of adversity.

An extraordinary evidence of God’s presence with us is His ability to carry us with His divine power in times of hardship. We continue moving on through what causes others to collapse and break down. In fact, the Lord says when you go through the fire, you will not be burnt. However, others will go through the same fire without God and get burnt. A classic example was the Israelites crossing the red sea on dry land because God made a way for them through the sea. The Egyptians thought it was a natural phenomenon and they too can profit from it. They did not have God on their side, and so they drowned.

One thing is sure when it comes to those who love God—all things work together for their good, because God, the Creator of heaven and earth, will ensure that it is so. No matter what affliction you are going through, do not be distressed or crushed by it. Maybe something has happened that is causing a tremendous amount of perplexity in your life. The scripture says do not be in despair because as you stand in faith, the situation will be under your feet. This is not positive thinking. It is God purposefully working all things in the favor of His children.

MEDITATE

Why are the problems we will face as Christians that unbelievers do not?

Can any of these afflictions stop us?

APPLY THE WORD

The Lord says you are a victorious in every way, over every circumstance of life, be it spiritual, financial, medical or even social. Your faith is the key to your victory. If Satan succeeds to crush your faith, the victory is lost. So be bold in your God. Stand fast and subdue whatever life tries to throw at you.