Paul's life contained enormous success for the cause of Christ, as well as stress and suffering on Christ's behalf. His circumstances changed time and again. At times he was esteemed and well-taken care of, then would come roadblocks, misunderstandings, legal trials, physical suffering, and personal rejection. God's sustaining grace carried him through difficulties and further equipped him for ministering to others. Trust God to do the same for you.
Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God (2 Corinthians 1:3-4).
Prayer: God, thank You for responding to our needs and carrying us through difficult times. I am grateful for the very real presence of Your Spirit, and the encouragement of Your Word. Give me opportunities to pass on Your compassion and comfort to those around me. In Jesus' name, amen.
Written by Debbie Piper
