Choosing the hard thing

We are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair. — 2 Corinthians 4:8

On September 12, 1962, President John F. Kennedy delivered a speech at Rice University in Houston, Texas, about the difficult challenges facing the nation. He also shared his passion for the United States to place a man on the moon.

In balancing the needs of his people with the desire to conquer space, Kennedy said, “We choose to go to the moon and do the other things, not because they are easy but because they are hard.” The nation responded. Seven years later, Neil Armstrong took a “giant leap for mankind” in July of 1969, walking on the moon.

Today’s world is filled with energy-saving devices that make life easier, but there is something to be said for embracing life’s challenges. The apostle Paul found serving Christ hard, but he didn’t see it as a cause for discouragement. He continued to focus on Christ, and wrote, “We are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed: we are perplexed, but not in despair” (2 Cor. 4:8). Paul knew that “He who raised up the Lord Jesus will also raise us up with Jesus, and will present us with you” (v. 14). The goal was worth the pain.

By the grace of God, may we commit to serving Jesus — not just when it’s easy, but when it’s hard. — Bill Crowder

It will be worth it all when we see Jesus,

Life’s trials will seem so small when we see Christ;

One glimpse of His dear face all sorrow will erase

So bravely run the race till we see Christ. — Rusthoi

READ: 2 Corinthians 4:5-18

Jesus gave His all to save us — are we giving our all to serve Him?

The Bible in one year:

• Numbers 4-6

• Mark 4:1-20