Singing in Jail – Day 3

We do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, about the hardships we suffered in the province of Asia. We were under great pressure, far beyond our ability to endure, so that we despaired even of life. Indeed, in our hearts we felt the sentence of death. But this happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God, who raises the dead. He has delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us. On him we have set our hope that he will continue to deliver us, as you help us by your prayers. Then many will give thanks on our behalf for the gracious favor granted us in answer to the prayers of many. - 2 Corinthians 1: 8-11


If Paul had times in his life that made him think he was going to die, then I’m sure we’ll have our own share of difficult days as well. Think about it: Paul was very close to God, but he still had moments in which he wondered what was going on. When you face harsh circumstances, it’s normal to be afraid, to wonder where God is, and to hate the pain. But you still get to choose how you respond. Paul saw the bigger picture; he didn’t need to rely on his own power – but on God’s – to get through trials. It’s easy to try to manage on our own, but God asks us to have faith in him, even in – especially in – the midst of our pain.

Think through your latest trial and note how you responded. Did you rely on God’s power or your own?

Ask God to show you how to respond like Paul in the midst of pain.