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Life Application Truth-Pressing On Through Hardship

August 9th, 2012

JOHN SHIRK – From Second Corinthians 4:16.

“Therefore, we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet, inwardly we are being renewed day by day.”

What is it that motivated Paul to keep going? He was motivated by the love of Christ to bring glory to God through changed lives by the Gospel. That word, “therefore” is a connector to the previous statement made by Paul. In that previous statement, he said, “All this is for your benefit, so that the grace that is reaching more and more people may cause thanksgiving to overflow to the glory of God.”

The Apostle Paul knew what it was like to face obstacles, and at the same time, looked for the opportunities that God was giving him to preach the Gospel. He said, “We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.” So, the application for us is to keep our focus on Jesus. Let His grace be the spark that energizes our faith. Let His glory be the purpose for our activity. Let the evidence of changed lives be a moment of celebration that offers praise to God for the good things He has done.

Perseverance through hardship is a vital sign of a changed life in the Year of Transformation.

John Shirk

john@wjtl.com




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