Good morning. Today’s Bible verses are from 2 Corinthians 4:8-9: “We are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed...”
Many people mistakenly believe, often influenced by false teachers, that the Christian life is marked by continuous health, wealth, and success if one works hard enough, does enough good, and gives generously. However, Paul’s and his coworkers’ experiences provide a clear contrast to this idea. In 2 Corinthians 4:8-18, Paul details his journey as an apostle of Jesus Christ, illustrating the actual cost and challenge of spreading the gospel of grace throughout the Roman world.
The heart of Paul’s message lies in verses 8 and 9: he and his fellow workers endured many hardships for the sake of the gospel. Despite being hard-pressed on every side, perplexed, persecuted, and struck down, they were not crushed, driven to despair, forsaken, or destroyed. In all their suffering, they remained steadfast and refused to give up.
Paul’s perseverance was grounded in the hope of resurrection. He writes, “…knowing that He who raised the Lord Jesus will also raise us with Jesus and present us with you” (2 Corinthians 4:14). The assurance of resurrection bolstered Paul and his companions with the strength to continue their mission. They lived and served by faith and confidence in the power of the gospel of grace and were unafraid of what others might do to them. They trusted that God’s power and faithfulness would help them overcome trials, knowing their proclamation of salvation and sanctification by faith was for God’s glory and the betterment of the Body.
Dear brothers and sisters, we who have believed in the gospel of grace and have the very presence of the indwelling Holy Spirit can have the same confidence and assurance, as Paul, that God our Father will provide for us. Our faith in the completed work of our risen Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, serves as the foundation of our relationship with God and provides stability in our lives. Let us live, love, and serve one another despite the criticism we may face from others, knowing that our faith is not in vain.
How can reflecting on Paul and his companions’ perseverance help you when others mock and ridicule your faith?
The New King James Version (Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1982), 2 Co 4:8–9.