for even when we came into macedonia, our bodies had no rest, but we were afflicted at every turn—fighting without and fear within. [2 corinthians 7:5]
what a beautiful picture of love this verse gives us of paul for the corinthian church and for the gospel of truth. as he sent titus off to check on this congregation, he longed for good news and encouragement. he longed for them to return to the truth. he longed for them to listen to his words of correction and love for them so that they might cling to the hope he had preached to them in the beginning. He longed for them to know the glory of God in Jesus Christ. so he arrived in macedonia with great anticipation.
however, just because the focus was on their spiritual well being, life didn’t stop. he and his companions were tired, afflicted, fighting. and isn’t this exactly what the enemy would use to pull paul and us away from our focus? he is crafty. he prowls around like a roaring lion [1 peter 5:8], and at our weakest, he will look to devour our faith, our calling to God’s mission, our marriage, our family, our discipleship, our lot family. he will stop at nothing. we are at war. and in our weakness, if we are trying to conjure up our own strength or ability to carry out the calling, we will surely lose.
thankfully, when we are tired, afflicted, discouraged, anxious, we can come into the presence of an almighty, all knowing, understanding, and glorious God and cast all our cares on him, because he cares for us. [1 peter 5:7] we can stop fighting this good fight in our own strength, and humble ourselves under the mighty hand of God, so that at the proper time, he will lift us up. [1 peter 5:8]
so if you are weary, discouraged, maybe even anxious about the hearts you long to see grasp onto the hope that you have, sit in the presence of our glorious comforter, and humble yourself. let him strengthen you. let him lift you up. let him take your cares. he loves you because you are his.
humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you. be sober-minded; be watchful. your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. [1 peter 5:6-8]
and my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. [philippians 4:19]
he gives power to the faint, and to him who has no might he increases strength. [isaiah 40:29]
awesome is God from his sanctuary; the God of israel—he is the one who gives power and strength to his people. blessed be God! [psalm 68:35]
~ arwen eastman