God Never Abandons His Servants

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

The town skeptic unexpectedly showed up at church one Sunday. He listened attentively to a lively sermon from the book of Acts about the many trials and troubles of the first-century believers. When the invitation was given for sinners to come forward and give their lives to Christ, no one budged. Finally, to everyone’s surprise, the skeptic rose from his seat and walked slowly toward the altar. Taking the pastor’s hand, the man leaned forward and whispered loudly, “Reverend, maybe more folks would consider joining your church if the Lord wasn’t so rough on his most faithful followers!”

Ever feel like that? Shouldn’t the children of God be exempt from excessive trouble? That’s a nice thought, but it’s not reality. The apostle Paul understood as well as anyone that serving God invites opposition and pain and suffering. But notice what enabled him to keep going—the truth that God never abandons his children.

If you are feeling strong spiritual opposition today, let that promise renew your resolve.

GOD’S PROMISE TO ME
• I will not allow you to be crushed.

• I will never abandon you.

• I will give you the strength and courage to keep going.

MY PRAYER TO GOD
Lord, the forces of evil are intent on opposing me. Grant me the faith, courage and perseverance to keep following hard after you. I want to keep going. I want to please you and have an eternal impact on those around me.