Power for Relationships:
Endure Hardship

Scripture Reading:  Hebrews 12:5-11

Key Verse: Hebrews 12:7

Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as sons. For what son is not disciplined by his father?

Our scripture for today is speaking about the endurance needed to maintain our faith during tough times.  Everyone goes through hardships but not everyone goes through them with the proper attitude.  God has not deemed to keep His children from hardship.  In fact, God has decided to use hardship as a tool to create good and godly characteristics in us.

            To have a proper attitude during hardships, we first must be very conscious of God’s presence.  God is watching us and is observing our words and behaviors during these times.  Anyone can talk right and behave right during good times.  God needs followers who can live through hardships and maintain Christ likeness.

            In the context of relationships, hardships play a critical role.  First, relationships are often at the center of what is making life tough.  Second, if hardships stem from other issues, how we deal with them will affect those around us.  If we are walking through a tough stretch of life, it is very easy to become impatient with those we are in relationships with.  We must learn to endure hardships without wrecking havoc in our relationships.

            When some person is causing you heart burn, remember God is watching you!  Of course, God will take revenge on those who deserve it (Romans 12:19).  But God wants you and me to endure it as if it came from Him.  Be patient with people and God will bless you!

Father, I need your reminders to show love and patience with people today.  I will follow your lead as you strengthen me.  In Jesus’ Name, Amen.