The Significance of Struggles
The Significance of Struggles
Romans 8:18 (NKJV)
18For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.
Struggles can produce blessings.
The principle.
James 1:2-4 (NKJV)
2My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, 3knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience.
4But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.
The purpose of hardship.
The paradox.
Galatians 6:2-5 (NKJV)
2Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. 3For if anyone thinks himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceives himself. 4But let each one examine his own work, and then he will have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another. 5For each one shall bear his own load.
There are times when we must allow people to struggle because there is a process at work.
The story of the emperor moth.
The picture.
The story of Samson’s struggle.
Judges 14:5-10 (NKJV)
5So Samson went down to Timnah with his father and mother, and came to the vineyards of Timnah. Now to his surprise, a young lion came roaring against him. 6And the Spirit of the Lord came mightily upon him, and he tore the lion apart as one would have torn apart a young goat, though he had nothing in his hand. But he did not tell his father or his mother what he had done. 7Then he went down and talked with the woman; and she pleased Samson well. 8After some time, when he returned to get her, he turned aside to see the carcass of the lion. And behold, a swarm of bees and honey were in the carcass of the lion. 9He took some of it in his hands and went along, eating. When he came to his father and mother, he gave some to them, and they also ate. But he did not tell them that he had taken the honey out of the carcass of the lion. 10So his father went down to the woman. And Samson gave a feast there, for young men used to do so.
Truths.
Samson’s struggle.
Samson’s strength.
Samson’s sharing.