DAY 15 | Faith Hacks

Press On

God never said life was going to be easy. In fact, Jesus tells us in John 16:33 "you will have trouble but take heart I have overcome the world". When life throws obstacles your way - press on.

The Lord is never caught off-guard by our problems or situations. He uniquely prepares us for the challenges of this life journey. Obstacles give us an opportunity for spiritual growth. They test our faith muscle. I can speak from my own experience and say that in the past, obstacles tried to destroy my faith. There have been several times when I wanted to give up. I felt like the situation I was in was too hard and I felt like I had failed God. I felt unseen, forgotten, and unworthy. I wondered why God would "allow" me to suffer so much. I was focused completely on my situation rather than on God and His promises. As I turned to the Bible, desperate to find truth, God led me to this verse.

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 NIV

Even though I was struggling, God showed me that I was not fighting this battle alone. He reminded me that I am not abandoned, crushed, or destroyed. He encouraged me to "press on" and look to Him even when my situation was extremely difficult.

Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. Philippians 3:13-14 NIV

I want to reassure you that the Lord sees you in your struggles and He is fighting for you. We are hard-pressed but as we press on, we discover more about the Lord and His great love. Cling to the truth of His promises.

Prayer

Lord, I thank you for encouraging us through Your word. Please be with us as we walk through our trials and hard times. Remind us that You are near and that we are not abandoned or crushed. Give us the strength to press on and keep our eyes on You.

Reflection

Is there a circumstance in your life that is causing you to feel hard-pressed on every side? Read 2 Corinthians 4:8-9 and let God remind you that He is with you. Philippians 4:13 starts with "forgetting what is behind". What is something the Lord is asking you to forget or forgive today? What does it look like for you personally to press on and focus your eyes on Jesus?

We hope you enjoyed today's devotional! Don't forget to join us at 12:30pm on Instagram Live!