The excitement is real and the emotions are elevated when we finally walk through the open door of opportunity we have prayed and believed for or when we witness the miraculous. We hear the “Hallelujah” chorus ringing in our ears and proclaimed from the mountain tops. If only these experiences lasted longer or forever. However, the reality is they do not.
Jesus informs us that we will have trials and tribulations, but not to fear because He has taken care of them and us (John 16:33). Life and ministry can be overwhelming, hard and downright discouraging at times. The desire to give up enters our thoughts, and the energy to fight them off wanes. Yet, it is also during these times, that if we press into the Lord, we learn a tremendous amount about who He is and who we are in Him.
How Can You Press In?
- Remember what He has spoken to you in the past. Read previous journals you wrote or review Scriptures He has revealed to you.
- Reach out to a spiritual mentor or leader and ask them to pray for and with you.
- Read Scriptures on how the Lord will never leave you and other promises of God.
- Allow the trial to make you better and not bitter by surrendering everything to the Lord.
- Be determined to not give up.
What is the result when you stay the course? Victory!
Have you ever looked at a mountaintop? My missionary friend Mindy Hines reminded me that nothing grows on the tops of mountains. The fruit is usually growing in the valley that is well watered by the melting of snow and rain that runs down the mountains. I love this analogy for our lives. We need the mountaintop experiences to be reminded of the greatness and power of God, yet it is during times of difficulty in the valleys where we are transformed into His image and learn His faithfulness.
When we examine the lives of the disciples, we are reminded that they lost their lives for the gospel. I’m not sure why we think our lives should be trouble free and smooth sailing. This is a lie from the enemy that attempts to sway us to give up and give in. But we must endure! Heaven awaits our obedience.
