2 Corinthians 4:8; Not In Despair

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2 Corinthians 4:8 We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair;

The Apostle Paul revealed the inner well-being of his heart as a servant of the Lord. He has experienced the Lord’s strength and comfort. He was not in despair despite the trouble and perplexing state of his environment and predicament serving the Lord. He speaks of the troubles that seemed to come from every angle possibly contrived. It may be mind-boggling to him, he felt perplexed yet he will not let his heart to sink into discouragement. He encouraged himself in the Lord.

When Job was plagued with grievous calamities in consecutive succession, it was perplexing. A mysterious evil has befallen him. He was helpless in his predicament to escape the damages that he has to bear. It seemed at once unbearable and yet he was not in despair. His life was grounded in God’s care for him.

1 John 4:18 There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.  

God’s love for him is perfect, surrounded by the truth of God’s care for him, he will not despair though he could not explain his predicament. God did not reveal to him why he was suffering such affliction as the loss of all his wealth, livelihood, children and also his health. His response was insightful. It tells us of the deep water faith in God that is established in his heart. He will not be shaken. His response was this – Job 1:20-22 Then Job arose, and rent his mantle, and shaved his head, and fell down upon the ground, and worshipped, And said, Naked came I out of my mother’s womb, and naked shall I return thither: the LORD gave, and the LORD hath taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD. In all this Job sinned not, nor charged God foolishly.

The Apostle Paul has studied well the Old Testament Scriptures of which Job’s testimony of faith came foremost in the early days of man’s existence. He understood that having Jesus is all that he ever needed. He was able to rest in Jesus for now and forevermore. May such faith be our portion too. Amen.