Life can be tough. And, when hard times come, it is very easy to focus on the pain and the struggles and how difficult things are. But, before we get too deep into focusing on the difficulties of life, let's take a look at what Paul went through. According to 2 Corinthians 11:23-29. Paul tells us of his travails:
- severe flogging - five different times, thirty-nine hits per flogging. Ever see "The Passion of the Christ"? Imagine the scene where the Romans beat Jesus x5.
- clubbed three times
- stoned once
- shipwrecked three times (no GPS, no Coast Guard)
- on the run and "in danger," unsure who to trust
- deprived of the basics of necessity for life (food, water, shelter)
- faced death on many occasions
But I want you to pay special attention to the last item on Paul's list: "Besides everything else, I face daily the pressure of my concern for all the churches" (1 Cor. 11:28, NIV). All of the life threatening uncertainties and privation Paul dealt with (including, though not listing, imprisonment), and what is he concerned about most? The church. The body of Christ. Others over self.
"Who is weak, and I do not feel weak? Who is led into sin, and I do not inwardly burn?" (1 Cor. 11:29, NIV). Personally, whatever Paul went through makes my minor tribulations seem all the smaller. I believe what the apostle is saying - at least in part - is this: if I can do it, so can you.
The reason Paul can do it is simple. His life focus can be summed up thusly: "I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me" (Galatians 2:20, NIV).
Let me encourage you to keep your eyes on Christ. Just like Paul, run your race - whatever course God has set for you - with great purpose and intent (see 1 Cor 9:24-27).
