Promises for the Battle
Suffering
Contentment #6—Challenged Contentment
He who did not spare his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how will he not also with him freely give us all things? Romans 8:32 While we need to be content when we are in the presence too much, we also need to be content when we encounter situations which threaten … Continue reading
Abundance #6—Comforting Abundance
As the sufferings of Christ are ours in abundance, so also our comfort is abundant through Christ … This comfort, extended to you by us, is effective for the patient enduring of the same sufferings which we also suffer. 2 Corinthians 1:4–6 Paul warned all his converts in advance that they would suffer rejection as … Continue reading
I Was Just Thinking … About Strengthening Faith
Paul’s sole objective was to work so that people’s faith in the Lord might develop and make progress. In Philippians 1:25 he said, “I will again be with you so that your faith (and resulting joy) might increase.” The faith of these Philippian Christians was already quite advanced. Every time Paul remembered them, he thanked … Continue reading
I Was Just Thinking … About Being More Than Conquerors
According to Romans 8:37 we are “more than conquerors through him who loved us.” While studying this passage with a class I taught, the question came up: How is it possible to be more than a conqueror? We understand what if means to win against an opponent, but how is it possible to do more … Continue reading
Behind the Scenes #3—The Grace of Suffering
When you face opposition, strive together for the faith of the gospel … that you suffer for his sake as I do … So then in my absence, be very careful how you effect your deliverance, because God is at work among you, both to will and to work as he pleases. Philippians 1:25–2:13 God … Continue reading
Civility #7—Hopeful Civility
If you happen to suffer for doing what is right, you are fortunate. So don’t let it bother you. Rather, set Christ apart as Lord in your hearts, so you will always be ready to answer, with courtesy and respect, anyone who asks about the hope you possess. 1 Peter 3:14–16 Hopeful people can be … Continue reading
Integrity #6 — Suffering Integrity
Suffer hardship with me, as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. No soldier in active service entangles himself in the affairs of everyday life, so that he may please the one who enlisted him as a soldier. Also if anyone competes as an athlete, he does not win the prize unless he competes according to … Continue reading
To Make Us Strong — #2 Strong Examples
Be patient; strengthen your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is near. … Behold, we count those prophets blessed who endured. Also, you have heard of Job’s endurance and you have seen the outcome of the Lord’s dealings, because he is emotionally tuned in and sympathetic. James 5:8, 11 Strength of heart occurs as … Continue reading
I Was Just Thinking … About “Necessary Suffering”
The other day while I was memorizing and meditating on chapter one of 1 Peter, the Lord gave me something which I believe will strengthen me whenever tribulations strike. In the hope that some of you might also find this thought helpful, I will share it with you: 1 Peter 1:6-7 says, “In this [salvation … Continue reading
Promises for the Battle 