And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. -Philippians 4:7 (NIV)
No trial has overtaken you that is not faced by others. And God is faithful: He will not let you be tried beyond what you are able to bear, but with the trial will also provide a way out so that you may be able to endure it. -1 Corinthians 10:13 (NET)
Ever felt like you were in a pressure cooker, feeling like you would be crushed from the enormous forces bombarding you on every side? Have you ever endured so long that people have told you they don’t even know how you could’ve lasted this long under such conditions?
No matter what you’re facing…physical, emotional, mental, or spiritual pressure…God has his reasons for you enduring them. He will make something great out of your trials.
But while you’re persevering to His glory, take care not to harden your heart in the interests of self-preservation. Leave and entrust the preservation of your well-being in God’s hands. And keep your God-given gift of discernment lit so His light can show you the way, when it’s time to move to the next step He has for you.
The first verse above is from Paul’s final exhortations to the Christians in Philippi, which is among some of the most dearly held verses to millions worldwide:
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. -Philippians 4:6-7 (NIV)
Through prayer, God can give you supernatural peace to carry you through the most intense circumstances.
The second verse at the top of this post, from 1 Corinthians, is another much-loved verse among believers. Beware to not misinterpret it, as some have done, to think it means God only wants good and happy times for you, and that God would never put you through trials.
Instead, know that, even under intense pressure, He has pressure release valves so you may safely endure your trials. You have His constant presence; the gift of prayer to commune with Him at any time; and the gift of fellowship in godly friends and family. Lean heavily on all these things.
Remember that from enormous pressure can come diamonds: tough, beautiful, and stable. Hang in there…God is making a gem out of you!
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