For the Sake of Christ!

2 Corinthians 4:8-10 (KJV) We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed; Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body.

It doesn't matter what your situation may look like.  God is still and always has been in control.  One of the most important things about your circumstance is your reaction to it.  We have been warned time and again throughout the Bible that afflictions will come.  When we have received Christ, however, HIS character should be manifested in our lives.

Someone is watching how you handle your troubles and persecution.  How do you respond when falsely accused or crushed to your very soul with heartache?  Is your reply "Though he slay me, yet will I trust him" like Job?  How will the world see Christ through you if you lash out at every hurt that someone inflicts upon you?  These afflictions are developing your character and preparing you for your next level of glory.

These tests that we all must endure are growing us up in the body of Christ.  We continue to grow (or not) spiritually as long as we live on this earth.  We have to study the Holy Scriptures and apply them to our lives, so that we can mature in the supernatural realm.  We can't bear witness of Holy Ghost power living raggedy lives.  For the sake of Christ we must change and grow.  We have to be able to take the good with the bad, the trouble, the perplexity, the persecution, and being cast down because we know that isn't the end for us.  The life of Jesus needs to be made manifest in our body, whatever the alleged cost.  For me to live is Christ, no matter what difficulties I face because I am living to live again and eternally!