Frequently, when hard times come, we instinctively raise a hand in protest. We can resist and fight. But what kind of attitude lingers? The lingering attitude of self-will usually drives us to despair!

Have you considered the man God chose to bear the gospel message to the Gentiles? Once confronted by Jesus, Paul submitted, while no longer resisting. Nowhere in Scripture does it even allude to the fact that he thought to himself:

• “I need time to think through exactly what this might cost me, like: pain, hardships, suffering, and putting my desires on hold!”
• “I love you, Lord, but not sure I can love those people enough to suffer for them!”
• “Woe is me! for God has given me a most difficult task!”

Because of Christ’s death-payment for the sins of the world in which the veil was ripped in two, we have access; not a timid approach, but in full boldness and confidence because of His completed work on our behalf (Matthew 27:51; Mark 15:38; Luke 23:45).

And so, dear brothers and sisters, we can boldly enter heaven’s Most Holy Place because of the blood of Jesus. By his death, Jesus opened a new and life-giving way through the curtain into the Most Holy Place. And since we have a great High Priest who rules over God’s house, let us go right into the presence of God with sincere hearts fully trusting him. For our guilty consciences have been sprinkled with Christ’s blood to make us clean, and our bodies have been washed with pure water.

Hebrews 10:19-22, NLT

What a gift we received! Confident, fully trusting hearts, are invited to walk right into His presence; So then, the Apostle Paul says, “DO NOT LOSE HEART” –It is for God’s glory when we encounter hardships! (Ephesians 3).

When you see the sufferings and tribulations of others or experience them yourself, remember we ARE called to suffer. It becomes an offering we give to our Savior and King. It also enables us to grow and mature in our desire to do the will of God; He is the Guardian of our souls (1 Peter 2:21; 1 Peter 4:1-2). Let us submit, no longer resisting.

The Apostle bowed his knees and received strength and power to submit to His Lord to fulfill the very purpose he was chosen: to be God’s Apostle (Ephesians 3:14).

Do you not think the same would be true for us? When we submit to God’s Rule – we gain strength and power to bring Him glory in whatever way He sees fit!  

Day 12 – no dairy, no sugar fast