The Word for today is found in 2 Corinthians 4:8-11

8We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; 9Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed; 10Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body. 11For we which live are always delivered unto death for Jesus’ sake, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our mortal flesh.

Does this sound like your life at any time in the past couple of years?

If so, then do not give up on yourself or God. Paul went through terrible afflictions and persecution, and he never lost his confidence or Joy. Jesus said if they persecuted me, they will surely persecute you.

Jesus told his disciples to get into the boat and they would go to the other side. He knew there was a storm coming and still went to sleep while his disciples worried themselves into a tither.

Storms are going to come, but God promises to always take you to the other side. How do I know? Because I read the Word.

Verse 10 speaks to the dying to self that we all need to do. I no longer belong to me, Louise. I am now a willing servant to Jesus, and as a servant His will comes first in my life.

I go where he tells me to go, I do what he tells me to do, and I say what he tells me to say. I have chosen to decrease so Christ can increase in me.

Verse 11 speaks to the crucifying of your flesh for the sake of the gospel.

It is your choice, but God has made it possible for you to put your flesh, or outward man, under the authority of the Word of God.

That is the only way one can develop a holy and sanctified life before God.

It is a day by day experience, but the Holy Spirit will come along beside you and take hold of you to be the person God has called you to be.

Stay with it and do not become discouraged when you do miss it, for we all do. Just get back up and keep pressing on.

Love in Christ, Pastor Louise