Embracing Joy in Troubled Times: Lessons from Paul

Paul lived in troubled times.

During his time in Ephesus, Nero, a wicked tyrant, was the emperor of Rome. Jewish leaders sought to persecute Jews who turned to the Christian faith, and paganism was rampant. I don’t know if there was a right and a left, but there was certainly a right and a wrong with great tension between the two. All Christians had to tread carefully during those dark days.

Yet, Paul used those days to bring new believers into the faith, challenge false beliefs, establish churches, encourage and establish young Christians, and strengthen the body of Christ. Times were troubled, but that just meant there was work to do.

As I read in Second Corinthians today, I thought about those times and compared them to the days in which we are living. I found many similarities. I was also reminded of reasons for hope and purpose.

“For all the promises of God in Him are yea, and in Him Amen, unto the glory of God by us. Now He which stablisheth us with you in Christ, and hath anointed us is God; Who hath also sealed us, and given the earnest of the Spirit in our hearts.     Not for that we have dominion over your faith, but are helpers of your joy: for by faith ye stand” (2 Corinthians 1:20 – 22, 24, KJV).

As I read these verses, I found hope to share.

• God is the God of yes. His promises are good, and they have not changed.

• We are established in Christ and anointed by God. When we go out into the world, God has prepared us just as He prepared the Apostle Paul. He is with us just as He was with Paul.

• When we know Christ, we are sealed by His Holy Spirit. Nothing in this world or universe can change that relationship. He has given us the guarantee of His Spirit in our hearts.

• We are helpers of joy. I love that. Sharing Christ brings joy. We may live amid persecution and trouble, but true joy abides in Jesus Christ.

• We stand in faith. This faith cannot be overcome. It is certain and secure.

  
  

The words that God gave to the Apostle Paul in Ephesus two thousand years ago are true today, and they are still bringing hope and life to His people. We have work to do. I have work to do to share this news with a troubled world.

Father, may I be a helper of joy for someone today. Let me use the darkness in the world as a challenge rather than an excuse. Shine my light so that it can be seen. Place me where you want me. Keep me faithful to You each day. Fill me with Your love until it overflows. In Jesus’ precious name I pray.