“For we do not want you to be unaware, brethren, of our affliction which came to us in Asia, that we were burdened excessively, beyond our strength, so that we despaired even of life; indeed, we had the sentence of death within ourselves so that we would not trust in ourselves, but in God who raises the dead” (2 Corinthians 1:8-9)
The Gospel has come to us through the cost of the saints who have brought it to us. Just because one deep in the faith who has shared it with you is smiling does not mean they have not suffered the cost for the faith. Rejoice that the Lord includes you in the hope of eternity. Be guided by His goodness and know that in Him is all life and true liberty through the salvation He provides.
Lord, teach me to press through every circumstance that I would be guided by You alone. Keep me from every temptation that would lead me away from You. You alone are the hope for all people, for through You have all things have been created. In Your goodness, lead me in the hope of salvation and through all obstacles that will come my way. You are the way, truth and life!
Lord Jesus, through Your Spirit, guide me today and every day to do what is pleasing in the Father’s sight. Keep me from those things which would lead me astray. Grant me fortitude to stand fast amidst all this world will throw at me. In all things, may I be found true to You, holding fast to the faith delivered once for all. In You alone is all hope and an eternal future. Amen.
