Trying Times

During this unstable financial climate, many Americans are truly beginning to worry about their future. But the Apostle Paul faced a much more dire situation; while jailed for the sake of the Gospel, he didn't know if he was going to live or die.

Nevertheless, he had this to say:

"For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.

If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know! I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far; but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body. Convinced of this, I know that I will remain, and I will continue with all of you for your progress and joy in the faith, so that through my being with you again your joy in Christ Jesus will overflow on account of me.

Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ.

Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in one spirit, contending as one man for the faith of the gospel without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you. This is a sign to them that they will be destroyed, but that you will be saved—and that by God.

For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for him, since you are going through the same struggle you saw I had, and now hear that I still have."

What great faith! But it isn't an unattainable faith. We need only be obedient and wait on the Lord. Truly, when it comes down to it, isn't that quite simple?