Deep contended joy comes from a place of complete security and confidence [in God] – even in the midst of trial.
Adversity
David Wilkerson
Worshippers aren’t made when they see the enemy on the run, put to flight. The truth is, worshippers of God are made during dark, stormy nights. And how we respond to our storms determines just what kind of worshippers we are.
David Jeremiah
At times, like the apostle Paul, we will feel hard-pressed, perplexed, persecuted, and struck down (see verses 8–9). However, when we belong to Christ, we can be assured that we will not be crushed, left in despair, forsaken, or destroyed. This should serve as an incredible comfort to us all.
Joni Eareckson Tada
Most of the verses written about praise in God’s Word were voiced by people faced with crushing heartaches, injustice, treachery, slander, and scores of other difficult situations.
Joseph Garlington
In the beginning of a process working toward the tipping point, gravity is working against you. As you continue to work toward the tipping point, what was working against you is now working for you. Imagine several people seeking to flip over an automobile. As they begin to lift, gravity works against them, but they expect it! But they press through the resistance knowing IF they continue, they’ll push pass the window of resistance to the tipping point, where the momentum is now unstoppable! The key is not to quit at the point where gravity is working against you, knowing that there is a point where that same force is now working for you! One of my favorite verses for this is 1 Corinthians 16:9 “…A wide door for effective service has opened to me, and there are many adversaries.” Opportunity and Opposition are partners. They are the two tracks the train runs on. They are constants, you need both to get you where you’re going.
Timothy Keller
If Jesus Christ didn’t abandon you in his darkness, the ultimate darkness, why would he abandon you now, in yours?
Blake Perez
Jesus said in John 16:33, “These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” We shouldn’t be murmuring and we shouldn’t be complaining in the midst of this hour. The only attitude we should have, Jesus says, is one of good cheer.
David Jeremiah
It is easy to lose heart when you face trials, setbacks, and failures. But failures in life do not need to define you. Rather, you are defined by your God-given identity of disciple. As long as you remain in Him, you continue to be defined by Him, not by any failings.
Levi Lusko
When you’re a Christian and you’re going through a great time of difficulty, you will notice that those around you who don’t know Jesus Christ—especially those you’ve shared your faith with before—will lean in extra close. Their ears perk up. They want to see if what you have advertised is going to prove true in the product demonstration. You told them that Jesus is the light of your world. Well, now your power has been cut, and they want to see if you can glow in the dark. You.
Cindy Butrow
There is a company of believers, and the number is growing, who have been stripped down to nothing. And in this place have found everything. Everything that is pure, authentic, and raw. Where the shiny lights of ministry and showmanship have lost their flavor and become a clanging symbol in the midst of a world in pain, that are hungry and thirsty for authenticity. For love. Out of the ashes, we are rising, not shiny, but beautiful as ever. There is a move of God coming up from the dust of life, leading us all into the arms of the Father, and teaching us how to lead on in His love. For such a time as this.