When Trouble Comes

We do not want you to be ignorant, brethren, of our trouble which came to us in Asia: that we were burdened beyond measure, above strength, so that we despaired even of life.

2 Corinthians 1:8

Some people grow depressed during the holidays or during the light-shortened days of fall and winter. For others, the trigger is the anniversary of the death of a loved one. Perhaps a single person dreads spending the weekends alone. Identifying the triggers that promote discouragement can be healthy and helpful.

Not long after beginning his missionary career, the apostle Paul learned when trouble was likely to come to him—when he entered a new area and began to preach the gospel. He said that at one point in Asia, he and his coworkers “despaired even of life” (2 Corinthians 1:8). But his troubles did not take his life. He later said he was “not crushed . . . not in despair . . . not forsaken . . . not destroyed.” (2 Corinthians 4:8). Indeed, it was the weakness of their human vessels that allowed the life of Jesus to be manifested through them to the world (2 Corinthians 4:11). When we despair, we do not despair about the ability of Jesus to see us through.

When you see troubles coming your way, know that you will not be crushed, forsaken, or destroyed as long as Jesus lives in and through you.

You may despair of yourself as much as you like, but never of God.

FRANÇOIS FENELON