It can be hard to follow Jesus. Fortunately, you and I aren’t likely to face beatings, imprisonment or riots for following Jesus. But we still may face hardships. Friends or family may not understand us or even turn away from us because of our faith.

When we face every kind of trial, it can feel like obstacles are being placed in our path. We may even feel at times like turning away from our faith in God. The promise is not that the Lord will remove our burdens nor carry them for us, but will strengthen us so that we may carry them.

God does not free us from duty, but gives us gifts to sustain us. God does not deliver us from conflict, but enables us to overcome. When we exercise these gifts of patience, kindness, holiness of spirit, genuine love and truthful speech, we are given power and great endurance to live fully for God. This is the life of faith, to live with joyful hearts in all circumstances.

By Jeff Light from D365