Now I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that what has happened to me has actually served to advance the gospel. As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ. And because of my chains, most of the brothers and sisters have become confident in the Lord and dare all the more to proclaim the gospel without fear. – Philippians 1:12-14
Paul’s circumstances were far from ideal. He was imprisoned, facing hardships that many of us could hardly imagine. But rather than complaining or questioning why God allowed this suffering, Paul saw a bigger picture. He knew that God was using his circumstances for a greater purpose: to advance the message of the gospel. His willingness to endure hardship with a mature and steadfast faith inspired courage in others, spurring them on to share their faith more boldly.
In the same way, God can use our struggles and challenges for His purpose. When we face tough times, it can be easy to focus on the pain and shout, “why me?” But what if God wants to use your story of perseverance to encourage someone else? When people see our faith remaining steady amid adversity – or even growing stronger – it can serve as a testimony to the hope we have in Christ. Our struggles, surrendered to God, can be the very things He uses to draw others closer to Him.
So if you find yourself in the midst of a challenging season of life, stay strong in your faith! Remember that God may be working through your situation to encourage and strengthen others. Keep holding onto the hope you have in Christ, knowing that the way you endure your trials can be a powerful witness to those around you.
You may never know how your perseverance and faith could inspire someone else to draw near to Christ, just like Paul’s unwavering faith did for the believers in his time.
“When through fiery trials thy pathway shall lie,
my grace, all sufficient, shall be thy supply;
the flame shall not hurt thee; I only design
thy dross to consume, and thy gold to refine.“
– “How Firm a Foundation” by Robert Keene (assumed), 1787
Former Blackout Artist 