“Now I am on my way to Jerusalem, compelled by the Spirit, not knowing what I will encounter there, except . . . that chains and afflictions are waiting for me.” —Acts 20:22–23
On the day he was converted, God began to reveal to Paul “how much he must suffer for my name” (Acts 9:16). This wasn’t the first or the last time that God urged a child of His to prepare for incoming suffering. In fact, He has said as much to us all: “You will have suffering in this world” (John 16:33).
Suffering in some form is to be expected. Paul knew this, as did Habakkuk, Peter, and many other biblical writers. God’s people will at times be taken to the very edge of peril. There will be affliction. There will be trials. There will be struggles.
But even as we accept this reality, we know an overriding truth that was spoken by Christ Himself: “I have told you these things so that in me you may have peace” (John 16:33, emphasis added). In Christ we can find peace—at all times.
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Habakkuk: Moving from Fear to Faith (Revive Our Hearts series)
Scripture is taken from the CSB.
Make it Personal
Pray for those who are suffering, that their thoughts will be turned to the presence and grace of Christ.