Therefore we do not lose heart… For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory, while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal. 2 Corinthians 4:16-18
I go out for bike rides sometimes to relieve some of my stress of life through exercise. The flow of sweat flushing the chemicals and impurities from my body refreshes my body, mind, and spirit. Many problems in my life have been reduced in significance by exercise, fresh air, and the great outdoors.
I set out one day to process some of my stress content, and the course I chose to ride placed me into a strong head wind. It took extra effort to stay the course and make progress. I strained at the pedals for long periods of time, but it seemed that no matter what gear I chose, the destination was still a great distance away. The wind was fierce, progress slow, but it definitely produced the body and mind the cleansing I desperately needed.
My encounters with the headwind is reminiscent of the unforeseen difficulties that blow into our lives each day. Sometimes things in life arise that we don’t anticipate and have no choice in. Those difficulties can change a normal, average, decently OK day into seemingly impossible challenge.
We are told in scripture that these times will only last “a moment,” yet in the midst of the crisis, the moment seems more like the length of winter in Wisconsin. The struggles are real and hardships intense. Having survived a few windstorms, I have learned to embrace the billows the best I can and to draw on the strength of my faith to get me through. When looking back on my experiences and seeing God’s faithfulness, I am more willing to endure the next round of blustery conditions and travel the paths ahead knowing He will help me endure to the end.
Friends, our journeys are only partially complete. Whatever the difficulty is in front of you, however long, seemingly impossible, or exhausting it is, don’t give up. Embrace the difficulties, endure the pain, press forward with much prayer and seek aide from others in the faith. The Lord knows who you are, what you are capable of, and what you will experience.
Who knows, God may even use your journey on the breezy trails of life to become an encouragement to someone else.
Lord, have all of me – my good days and bad. And strengthen me by Your faithfulness.
Blessings,
