Hosanna Restoration Church

Jesus told us that we would have tribulation in this world. At the same time He told us to have a good time(be of good cheer)because He had overcome the world. And we say, how can I enjoy tribulations? He never said to enjoy them, but rather to rejoice and enjoy Him, because He had already taken care of things. We are told to rejoice in the Lord always. It is certainly a lot better to laugh our way through problems than to become angry, frustrated, and fearful. We are to always looking to Jesus.

There is not one person, Christian or non Christian that does not experience problems of some sort or another. As Christians, we are expected to show the world that Jesus makes a difference in how we handle things, which will ultimately have an effect on how things turn out. There are a ton of arguments over faith, confession, healing, deliverance, and well, you name it, and there is an argument over it! This is rather sad, considering that we are told to avoid arguments that serve to divide us and cause contention.

This short compilation of words is by no means the ultimate solution to all disagreements, but it could be a great help for all who will apply it when it comes to overcoming in the midst of tribulations. The first part of verse 22 says that they were strengthening the souls of the disciples, exhorting them to continue in the faith. I believe that we as believers need to simply determine that we will do what ever it takes to enter the kingdom of God. By this I am not referring only to the eternal dwelling place, but to the Kingdom of Heaven which is at hand now.

No matter what, there is a place on the other side of the tribulation. There is a victory in every battle. We must just keep believing God. We can not be stopped by our own experience of the past or someone else’s outcome. We must do whatever it takes to get to where God wants us. In some instances, I see it like a good running back in football. If he hits the line and there is no where to go he makes a way. Sometimes he just blows right through. Sometimes he leaps over the top. Other times he bounces out, spins, and runs to daylight. On other occasions he may switch directions completely. No matter what he does, he never changes the focus of where he wants to get. He is headed for the end zone. If he does not make it on one play, he wants the ball on the next play. He always feels like he can score on any given play and He is willing to do whatever it takes.

Are we prepared to do what ever it takes? Are we going to let tribulation stop us, or are we going to use it when it comes, to strengthen us. Notice I said, when it comes. Don’t go look for it, if it is not present. And don’t be surprised if it comes. Sometimes it will come and God will blow it out of the way. Other times we may have to hit, spin, change directions, even end up feeling like we are at the bottom of the pile. Even then, look up! For your redemption draws near. Continue in the faith…what ever it takes!