H-P, P, P, and S-D

There doesn't seem to be a moment to take a relaxed breath. The pressure on every side continues and increases. 

There doesn't seem to be a way to sort out what's happening. Nothing makes sense even with ongoing consideration. 

There doesn't seem to be any possibility to avoid opposition. Concerted effort leads to stronger resistance.

There doesn't seem to be an end to being thrown into the dust. Getting up becomes a greater chore each time it happens.

Paul described the situation quite well. I'm just not sure where he found these responses.

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

H-P, hard pressed but not crushed?

P, perplexed but not in despair?

P, persecuted but not abandoned?

S-D, struck down but not destroyed?

How can that be?  I need to know. 


Paul goes on in the passage to remind us of the life-giving Truth that the sufferings for God's chosen in this world identify us as belonging to Christ because He too suffered here. AND the life we continue to live provides a testimony to His ongoing, resurrected presence - with us here and in heaven eternally. 

Therefore, we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.  2 Corinthians 4:16-18

The faith and hope the Father imparts are for my benefit as well as the glory of His Name. They sustain me in this life and, according to His will, cause His grace to abound and gratitude to overflow. There is a reason for it ALL, my good and God's exaltation.

I'm beginning to think there may be a "but not" for every situation I face. 
Time to start looking for each one.

I don't know. Do you have any idea what I'm talking about?