Rising Above Life’s Trials Through Christ

Mar 6 – Mar 27

Motivated by the Vision

By Michael Youssef, Ph D.  03/10/21

Doesn’t it seem that our greatest battles occur while trying to accomplish something great for God? Do not be discouraged—no one has ever accomplished God’s vision for his or her life without facing discouragement, hindrances, and difficulties. But if it is truly God’s vision for your life—and not your own personal ambitions or dreams—then God will give you whatever you need to work through those obstacles.

God had a vision for the apostle Paul’s life, and He communicated this vision through a man named Ananias: “But the Lord said to Ananias, ‘Go! This man is my chosen instrument to proclaim my name to the Gentiles and their kings and to the people of Israel'” (Acts 9:15).

But Paul didn’t go straight from the road to Damascus to the palaces of kings. It wasn’t until Acts 26 that Paul’s life-vision was completely fulfilled as he stood before King Agrippa. And in between those many years, he faced more obstacles and discouragements than most of us will ever face in a lifetime. Paul experienced imprisonment, beatings, starvation, insults, and hardships—all for the sake of Christ (see 2 Corinthians 11:22-28).

What motivated Paul when everything around him seemed to be against him? The power of his God-given vision. Having God’s vision for our lives will keep us moving forward, but without it, we easily lose hope and give up.

We may never share the Gospel with kings, but God has a vision for our lives, just as He did for Paul. When you feel too insignificant to make a difference, remember that you are a child of the King.

Prayer: God, help me not to be discouraged when I am faced with obstacles to the vision You have given me. Help me to remember that it is Your vision and that You will give me everything I need to fulfill it. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.

“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up” (Galatians 6:9).