In Times of Trial…2 Corinthians 4:7-9

In Times of Trial…2 Corinthians 4:7-9
7.But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us. 8. We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; 9. Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed.
struck

The words of 2 Corinthians 4:7-9 spoke to my heart today. I had to wonder what the Apostle Paul was feeling when he pinned those words. I wondered if somehow he could relate to how I’ve been feeling lately. It’s hard to explain what I’ve been going through but deep inside of me there is a fight for my mind. I have not known the hardship of what the Apostle Paul experienced and yet I know what it feels like to feel troubled, perplexed, persecuted and cast down. His words speak hope to me. Hope to know that no matter what I will overcome.
I Peter 4:12-13 says, 12 Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. 13 But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed.
This verse makes me smile. Did you catch that last verse? So that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed. Rest assured my friend…his glory will be revealed in our distress, in our trouble, in persecution. He will be revealed….the enemy will be exposed!
I say all this to say, do not lose heart. Do not allow the enemy to rob you of your joy. We have this treasure in earthly vessels. God sees us as valuable in our broken state. He knows that His light will shine brighter through the cracks & crevices of our lives. His light will shine forth and show this world that God uses broken people.
Teresa Oechsli
President/Founder
Hosea’s House Ministries
www.hoseashouse.com