Scripture
"For it seems to me that God has put us apostles on display at the end of the procession, like those condemned to die in the arena. We have been made a spectacle to the whole universe, to angels as well as to human beings. We are fools for Christ, but you are so wise in Christ! We are weak, but you are strong! You are honored, we are dishonored! To this very hour we go hungry and thirsty, we are in rags, we are brutally treated, we are homeless. We work hard with our own hands. When we are cursed, we bless; when we are persecuted, we endure it; when we are slandered, we answer kindly. We have become the scum of the earth, the garbage of the world—right up to this moment." (1 Corinthians 4:9-13)
Observation
Contrary to popular belief, the problems we face don’t magically disappear when we choose to follow Christ. We still face the same struggles and situations, and in some cases, these issues may even get worse! If our problems don’t go away, how is it then that life somehow still gets better? Life gets better because Christ transforms our perspective.
When we follow Christ, we realize that the things of this earth are temporary and that there is more to life than our present moment. When we follow Christ, we realize that God is always with us and we are never alone. When we follow Christ, we realize that in Him, we have a comforter, a healer, a protector, a provider, a defender, and a friend. Yes, there may be a cost to following Christ, but the reward––the peace, the purpose, and the perspective He gives us––is, and will always be, so much greater.
Application
Problems and difficulties are inevitable, but with God, you are an overcomer. He has great plans for your life, and He has given you gifts and talents that are awaiting to be discovered, developed, and deployed. In this world, we will have trouble––it’s a fact of life. What’s more? The devil will try to attack by amplifying these problems, especially when he knows God has great plans for you. However, take heart, for He has overcome the world. When the enemy attacks, remember that God is your defender who goes before you. When you face a problem you don’t have the answer to, listen to His still small voice guiding you. When you don’t know what to do, stop and surrender, knowing that God is with You and He is for you.
Prayer
Lord,
What a privilege it is to follow You! Thank You that You are the creator of all things, and yet, all You want is my heart. I may be facing difficult problems and insurmountable situations, but right now, in this very moment, I choose to surrender them all to You. I trust You completely knowing that You have never failed and You won’t start with me. You are my champion, You are my defender, and You are my Savior. Thank You that long before I have even begun to pray this prayer, You have already begun to move. You are good!
In Jesus’ name,
Amen
