2 Corinthians 4:8-9

We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. -2 Corinthians 4:8-9

Sounds pretty horrible to be "pressed on every side", "perplexed", "persecuted", and "struck down". In fact, if you just look at the life described before the "but", you would miss the point. No matter how crazy, tough, and painful things around may seem, God never allows them to completely over take us. My study Bible puts it this way "[a]ll our risks, humiliations, and trails are opportunities for Christ to demonstrate his power and presence in and through us."

So the question really is, "How many opportunities for Christ are in your life?"

Prayer of the day: Lord, help me to see the difficult and challenging situations around me as opportunities for you to work. Thank you for never letting the "world" crush me.