When Life Is Hard

>> Opening Bible Reading

Luke 7:18-23

18 John's disciples told him about all these things. Calling two of them, he sent them to the Lord to ask, “Are you the one who is to come, or should we expect someone else?” 19 When the men came to Jesus, they said, “John the Baptist sent us to you to ask, ‘Are you the one who is to come, or should we expect someone else?’” 20 When the men came to Jesus, they said, “John the Baptist sent us to you to ask, ‘Are you the one who is to come, or should we expect someone else?’” 21 At that very time Jesus cured many who had diseases, sicknesses, and evil spirits, and gave sight to many who were blind. 22 So he replied to the messengers, “Go back and report to John what you have seen and heard: The blind receive sight, the lame walk, those who have leprosy are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the good news is proclaimed to the poor. 23 Blessed is anyone who does not stumble on account of me.”

>> Opening Illustration: Patience

Sometimes, people ask questions that they should already know the answers to if they were paying attention. Jesus expected the same from John the Baptist, who, despite having declared Jesus as the Messiah, sent his disciples to ask, “Are you the one?” While in prison, John faced doubts that crept in, prompting him to question the very identity of the Savior he had proclaimed.

>> In a moment of despair, John found himself in a situation that challenged his faith. He was imprisoned because he stood up for righteousness, calling out King Herod for marrying his brother’s wife. While this was a matter of public knowledge, it cost him his freedom. In the depths of his circumstance, John questioned the goodness of God, just like we often do when life becomes hard.

It's crucial to note that Jesus never provided a direct answer to John's inquiry. Instead, He demonstrated His power through miracles: healing the sick and proclaiming the good news. Sometimes, we look for easy answers, yet the profound nature of faith is often found in enduring our disappointments.

John’s situation invites us to reflect: Do we have faith that withstands our disappointments? Faith is not merely believing in what we expect God to do but trusting Him despite our circumstances. God’s goodness remains constant, regardless of our struggles.

> Faithful Friends

In times of hardship, we must surround ourselves with faithful witnesses of God’s wonders. John sent his disciples to seek Jesus, demonstrating the importance of having friends who can stand with us in prayer and support. It is essential to have prayer warriors by our side, especially when we find ourselves questioning our faith.

> Finding Fulfillment

Finally, as we witness Jesus healing others, we must also learn to find fulfillment in the praise of those around us. Even when we feel overlooked or forgotten, God is working in our lives and the lives of others.

>> Conclusion

As we navigate through difficult seasons, let us remember that faith is not the absence of doubt but the perseverance through it. Trust in God's goodness, rely on your community, and keep your eyes on His miracles, for in every challenge lies the opportunity for profound growth.