Struck Down But Never Destroyed

t the start of the week is always a great time to do some introspection, some reflection and some projection and to take intentional action.

For me, there are many days when I feel like the Apostle Paul.

He said at one point, in 2 Corinthians 4:8-9 AMP “We are pressured in every way [hedged in], but not crushed; perplexed [unsure of finding a way out], but not driven to despair; hunted down and persecuted, but not deserted [to stand alone]; struck down, but never destroyed;” 

Paul was speaking to the Church at Corinth, encouraging them in their faith journey, especially as they faced hardships. 

As much as we are encouraged as Christians to speak life and live, we cannot bury our heads in the sand and pretend that we do not have some concerns sometimes that want to overwhelm us. 

The Bible acknowledges that we will have trouble. John 16:33 “I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have [perfect] peace. In the world you have tribulation and distress and suffering, but be courageous [be confident, be undaunted, be filled with joy]; I have overcome the world.” [My conquest is accomplished, My victory abiding.]”

People may feel sad or discouraged for various reasons. It’s often a combination of emotional, mental, physical, or spiritual challenges.

If faced with overwhelming responsibilities for example, there’s an invitation from Jesus in Matthew 11:28 ““Come to Me, all who are weary and heavily burdened [by religious rituals that provide no peace], and I will give you rest [refreshing your souls with salvation].”     

If feeling unappreciated or overlooked, remember God sees what others may not and He is our Rewarder.

Galatians 6:9 “Let us not grow weary or become discouraged in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap, if we do not give in.”

There may be someone, even in a crowd of people, feeling lonely or isolated. And this may become even heavier as the holidays are approaching.

There is reassurance in Psalms 34:18 “The Lord is near to the heartbroken And He saves those who are crushed in spirit (contrite in heart, truly sorry for their sin).”

If anyone happens to be wallowing in past failures or regrets, be encouraged today by Philippians 3:13-14 “Brothers and sisters, I do not consider that I have made it my own yet; but one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the [heavenly] prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.”

We are alive today. Let's see this new day as a fresh opportunity to grow and move forward in Christ. 

Even at the start of a brand new week, there are those who are mourning the loss of the weekend. It was so short. Didn't get enough rest.  And you have what is called Monday blues. You are still so tired. You are not ready for the work week. May I take you to Isaiah 40:29 “He (God) gives strength to the weary, And to him who has no might He increases power.” 

And as we seek every day to develop our relationship with God, let us speak to our spirits and jump start this new day with all of the enthusiasm we can muster.

Psalm 42:11 “Why are you in despair, O my soul? Why have you become restless and disquieted within me? Hope in God and wait expectantly for Him, for I shall yet praise Him, The help of my countenance and my God.”

So start with giving thanks to God, speak positive affirmations of God’s promises over your life, involve your community and share your burdens with a trusted friend or church group, set small goals and focus on one achievable task at a time, and don't forget to pray, pray and pray some more for renewal strength, a refreshing from God for your spirit.

We must remember that life has ups and downs, but with God’s help, encouragement, and practical steps, we can all rise above discouragement and face this and every day with hope. 

We can be struck down but once we are alive we are never destroyed. 

We are a resilient people, those of us who trust in God. Even when faced with failure, disappointment, rejection, abandonment 

This passage highlights the resilience of those who trust in God, reminding us that even when faced with rejection, we are upheld by God’s grace and strength.

John the Baptist’s life reflects this truth vividly. He was a forerunner of Christ, boldly proclaiming the message of repentance and preparing the way for Jesus. 

Despite his faithfulness, he was imprisoned and ultimately executed by Herod (Matthew 14:3-10). Yet, even in his trials, John fulfilled his God-given purpose.

John’s circumstances teach us that rejection does not equal failure. John 3:30: “He must increase [in prominence], but I must decrease."

God was with John as He is with us today. His presence sustains us. So when we feel cast out or struck down, we are never alone.

Isaiah 41:10 “‘Do not fear [anything], for I am with you; Do not be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, be assured I will help you; I will certainly take hold of you with My righteous right hand [a hand of justice, of power, of victory, of salvation].’”

Family, these trials we are facing now, look at it this way, they serve a greater purpose, even if we don’t see the full picture.

Psalms 37:24 “When he falls, he will not be hurled down, Because the Lord is the One who holds his hand and sustains him.”

And Romans 8:28 “And we know [with great confidence] that God [who is deeply concerned about us] causes all things to work together [as a plan] for good for those who love God, to those who are called according to His plan and purpose.”

In the event that anyone is feeling rejected or cast aside like John, we can find strength by remaining obedient to God’s calling even in hardship; trusting in God’s promises and remembering His faithfulness; and focusing on Christ’s mission for our lives, not the approval of others.

John’s story reminds us that while the world may cast us out, God always holds us up. He will use every part of our journey for His glory.

aub - 9Dec24

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