June 13 Stand Strong 2 Corinthians 4:8-9
Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.” (2 Corinthians 4:8-9)
There are days, when I want to pull the covers over my head, and refuse to face the challenges of the present day! Have you ever felt that way? Paul, in today’s scripture passage, describes the realities of ministerial life. We, as “Born-Again” Believers, have a responsibility to witness and live for Jesus, so that lost folk will see Jesus in us. I am here to tell you that, so very often, the task can be difficult! I continue to remind myself that I am only required to witness and share the Love of Jesus, not to “Save” folks! Jesus’ selfless act at Calvary and the Holy Spirit are in charge of the “Saving” part! This evil and perverse world is absolutely opposed to the Love of God and Satan is prepared to challenge us, at every moment! Satan is so pleased when we, as representatives of the Love of Christ, become discouraged and weary in our righteous responsibilities. At that moment, Satan has his best opportunity to “Steal our Witness!” The message is short, today! DO NOT ALLOW SATAN TO STEAL YOUR JOY, YOUR ENTHUSIASM, YOUR VISION, NOR STEAL YOUR JOY! Paul said it and I am attempting to live it…“We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.” How about you? Remember the “Victory Principle!” “I affirm that God’s power is rising in me, renewing and healing my body, bringing power to my mind, giving me success in my work. I affirm health, energy, enthusiasm, the joy of life. All of this I owe to Jesus Christ, my Lord and Savior. He has given me the “VICTORY PRINCIPLE” for which I thank Him every day!!” NOT TODAY SATAN, NOT TODAY! Stay Strong, Stay Focused…THE BEST IS YET TO BE!