Your Source and Your Strength

April 8

The Apostle Paul, like the others who served Christ with the entirety of their energy, endured much hardship because of his resolve to share the good news of Jesus, the Light of our salvation with a world steeped in darkness.

Trials of every sort dogged his heels as he traversed the known world in his determination to introduce the gospel of salvation to everyone whose life touched his. Paul, though beaten and shipwrecked, imprisoned and scorned, maintained a joy that enabled him to stay focused on his goal in spite of his trials.

To us, Paul’s life seems laden with adversity, but he did not see it that way. His own perception of his formidable traumatic experiences is far different than to warrant self-pity or even self-righteousness. In Philippians 4:11-13, he has much to say in the matter and we who suffer today may take to heart his words of encouragement for we share his Source!

Paul said, “…I have learned to be content whatever my circumstances. I know what it is to be in need and to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in every situation, whether well fed or hungry; whether living in abundance or in want. I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.” Jesus, your Source, is your Strength, too.