The life of a Christ-follower is a life of struggle. If anyone says anything differently tell them to take a hike. The whole idea of an “easy life” is nuts. The whole teaching that a follower of Christ is to never struggle and live only in victory is whacked. It has been my experience that to live for Christ is difficult. Not impossible, but difficult. It is hard. It is a constant ripping at the heart, the very fabric of my soul. If, according to the health/wealth false teachers or the New Apostolic Reformation so-called “apostles and prophets,” I’m messed up, then so be it. Jesus suffered; I will suffer. Jesus felt abandoned; so will I. Jesus felt alone; guilty.
The good news is that I am not alone; I do not suffer alone; and I’m not left defenseless. Listen to these words from Psalm 119. See if they don’t challenge and encourage you:
“Oh, that my actions would consistently reflect your decrees!” (v.5)
“How can a young person stay pure? By obeying your word.” (v.9)
“I have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you.” (v.11)
“Turn my eyes from worthless things, and give me life through your word.” (v.37)
There you have just 4 verses from my reading of verses 1-40 this morning. If I was to “organize” them into thoughts I would say:
- Be consistent.
- Obey the Word.
- Stay in the Word.
- Focus on Him.
I wish more than anything that I could say, “Do these four things and you will never fail!” While in theory that may be true, in reality it won’t happen. Stumbling is a reality; failure (giving up) should not be.
Be consistent. Obey the Word. Stay in the Word. Focus on Him. Easy? No. But worth every moment. May the words of this Scripture be your guide today.
