We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. 2 Corinthians 4:8-9 NIV
A young woman complained to her mother about how hard life was. Situations were difficult, and she felt like giving up. Without saying a word, the mother took her to the kitchen. She filled three pots with water and placed them on the stove. Soon, the water came to a boil. She then put carrots in the first pot, eggs in the second, and ground coffee beans in the third.
In about 20 minutes, she turned off the burners. She fished out the carrots and placed them in a bowl; she pulled the eggs out and placed them in a bowl. Then she ladled out the coffee in a cup. Turning to her daughter, she asked her which one she was. When adversity knocks on your door, do you start strong like the carrot but soon lose your strength and become soft? Or the egg, which begins with a malleable heart but with trying times, becomes bitter with hardness inside while the outer shell looks the same? Or are you the coffee bean that changes the hot water, the very circumstance that brings pain? How do you handle adversity? Are you a carrot, an egg, or a coffee bean?
Apostle Paul explains in the verse above that we are pressed, perplexed, persecuted, and struck down. Our relationships, finances, careers, and health may be under attack. Do not despair; Paul reassures us we are not abandoned. Our God is Adonai Shammah – God who is present with us. Our enemy cannot crush or destroy us because we are hidden in Christ. So be bold in prayer. Stand firm in your identity in Christ. You are His child! He has redeemed you from the forces of darkness. At the mention of the name of Jesus, Heaven’s armies are fighting on your behalf.
Do not be discouraged when faced with challenges but remember that God loves you and is for you! You are the apple of His eye.
John 16:33- “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
