Perseverance Under Pressure
- Bishop Keith Butler
- May 12
- 2 min read
Are they ministers of Christ? (I speak as a fool) I am more; in labours more abundant, in stripes above measure, in prisons more frequent, in deaths oft. Of the Jews, five times received I forty stripes save one. Thrice was I beaten with rods, once was I stoned, thrice I suffered shipwreck, a night and a day I have been in the deep; In journeyings often, in perils of waters, in perils of robbers, in perils by mine own countrymen, in perils by the heathen, in perils in the city, in perils in the wilderness, in perils in the sea, in perils among false brethren; In weariness and painfulness, in watchings often, in hunger and thirst, in fastings often, in cold and nakedness. (2 Corinthians 11:23-27)
Paul faced incredible challenges throughout his ministry. He was shipwrecked, beaten repeatedly, stoned, imprisoned, hungry, and frequently in danger. His life wasn't easy, yet Paul continued faithfully preaching the gospel. He endured tremendous hardships because he understood the value and power of the message he carried.
Think about times when you've felt spiritually encouraged or inspired by God's Word, only to face setbacks or unexpected pressures immediately. Maybe it was a family conflict, financial stress, or distractions that crowded your mind. This isn't random—it's exactly how the enemy tries to attack us and distract us from holding onto our faith.Paul didn't give up despite intense pressure and trials. Instead, he pressed forward, recognizing the tactics of the enemy.
Like Paul, we must learn to recognize these tactics, too. When you experience pressure, remember it's an attempt to distract and discourage you, and choke the life-giving Word you've received. Paul faced opposition from every direction. Yet, he stayed grounded in his mission. He knew the pressure wasn't a sign to give up; it was confirmation he was on the right path.
Practical Application
Choose one promise from Scripture to memorize today and recite it whenever pressure or distractions arise.
