“Now I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that what has happened to me has actually served to advance the gospel.” (Philippians 1:12, NIV)
Apostle Paul did not complain about his chains while he was imprisoned. Instead, he consecrated it and asked God to use them for the pioneer advancement of the Gospel. Little did the Romans realize that the chains they affixed to his wrists would give freedom to Paul to share the gospel to the prison guard instead of bind him.
We may not be in prison, but we still have plenty of opportunities to be discouraged in times of indecision, financial burden, family conflict, church conflict, or job loss. The way we react in such given situations reflects what we truly believe in.
Like Paul, let us look for ways to demonstrate our faith even in bad situations. Whether or not the situation improves, may the God of all grace and mercy strengthen us to turn our discouragement into encouragement so that our faith will grow more. May the grace and love of God be upon us all.
In Christ Jesus,
