By Pastor Dr. Aggrey Soyekwo
Philippians 1:12-14 "Now I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that what has happened to me has actually served to advance the gospel. As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ. And because of my chains, most of the brothers and sisters have become confident in the Lord and dare all the more to proclaim the gospel without fear." - NIV
Paul was in prison because of the gospel of Jesus Christ he so zealously preached. While there, he just continued undeterred by prison limitations to preach the gospel. In the text above, he joyfully highlights a great achievement from his sufferings: the advancement of the gospel through his chains, and the boldness others had got to proclaim the gospel without fear.
Challenges and painful sufferings make some people forget their mission in life, lament and pity themselves. Others give up whatever good they were doing, blame, or fight those they associate with their suffering. In the end, they are angry and bitter, their lives are messed up and lose direction. Paul didn’t even look at those who put him in prison. He steadfastly focused on his life mission in freedom and in chains.
Challenges are sure to come our way in life. No one is exempted. The greatest achievement is to look beyond the pains to how the challenges and sufferings are helping further your mission in life. The devil’s desire is to divert you from your God given purpose and mission, to fighting people. In that way you lose the battle. However terrible a challenge is, there is always something good that will come out of it. With such attitude towards challenges, you will always see good and rejoice even in bitter moments.
Romans 8:28 "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."
Genesis 45:5 "And now, do not be distressed and do not be angry with yourselves for selling me here, because it was to save lives that God sent me ahead of you."
Shalom children of God