5 Reasons for Hard Times (part 1)
Oftentimes, the Gospel is advertised as a ticket out of hard times. We may say things like, "If you believe in God, He will heal your body." Or, "If you have enough faith, God will take away your financial struggles." Some say that God wants you to chase your dreams. While He often does use our desires for His glory, our number one goal should be to chase Jesus. Whatever gets us to that end, we can be willing to endure for the sake of worshiping, enjoying, and exemplifying Christ. After all, I don't think it was Paul's dream to go to prison. However, he learned to be content in all circumstances (Philippians 4:11) through the joy that Christ brings. Although we serve a healing, delivering, all-powerful God, we aren't promised that life will be a bed of roses. In fact, quite the opposite is true. The Bible promises hardship (see John 16:33, Hebrews 12:5-8). However, there is hope. One thing that you won't hear me