2 Corinthians 4:8-10 NLT:
We are pressed (pressured) on every side by troubles, but we are not crushed. We are perplexed (pressure in our minds), but not driven to despair. We are hunted down (pressure from other people), but never abandoned by God. We get knocked down (circumstantial pressure), but we are not destroyed.
We spoke of the pressure that Daniel and his friends lived under constantly. Let’s go further.
Perplexed: Paul speaks of pressure coming from every side. I can relate. These are the internal thoughts, doubts, fears, and insecurities no one ever sees. While we are walking tall, proud, strong, and apparently fire-proof, no one knows we are secretly wrestling with indecision, confidence issues, and “How am I going to do this?” pressures.
Hunted down: For me, this is the “expectation pressure” that hunts me down. My mind can’t relax because “people expect me to have answers.” I’m supposed to have a clear vision, words from God, wise counsel, and home-run sermons ready 24/7. As a spouse or parent, similar expectation pressures build. Honestly, I’ve learned this pressure is more self-imposed. I project expectations from people they don’t even have of me. I “disappoint” imaginary expectations that don’t even exist. Perhaps you can relate.
Knocked down: These are life’s circumstances that surprise and overwhelm our capacity limits. Career changes, financial challenges, marriage and family issues… Life happens. “Pressure makes diamonds,” but it can also make for divorce. “Diamonds” …but also unwise decisions. “Diamonds” …but can also leave you the proud owner of a timeshare. Pressure can crush, create despair, and even destroy you unless we have what Paul had. And we do!
“But we have this treasure in earthen vessels (our bodies), that the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us” (2 Corinthians 4:7 NKJV). We have the excellent power of God sustaining us through all pressures so that the life of Christ will be evident to others. He will sustain you. Be encouraged!
Prayer:
Father, thank You for Your Holy Spirit living within me! Fill me! Strengthen me! Sustain me! I trust Your presence and power to see me through the pressure in my life, in Jesus’ name!