Choosing Christ Even In The Struggle - May 29, 2025
Scripture:
“We must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God.”
— Acts 14:22 (NIV)
Devotional:
We all want a life that doesn’t drain us to survive it. We long for rest, relief, and a season that finally feels light. But God doesn’t always lead us through still waters. Sometimes, He leads us straight through the storm, not to destroy us, but to develop us.
In Acts 14:22, Paul reminds the believers that “we must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God.” This isn’t a punishment, it’s the process. God is still writing your story, even when the pages feel torn. The pressure you feel isn’t the end, it’s preparation.
And here’s what you need to remember in the middle of it: He’s still in control. He hasn’t changed His mind about you. Even when it hurts, God is still GOOD. Even when it’s unclear, His promises are still TRUE. You may feel surrounded, but you are also covered. You may be in a fight of your life, but no weapon formed against you will prosper (Isaiah 54:17).
So if you're facing stress, grief, delays, or discouragement, don’t see it as defeat. See it as God setting the stage for His glory. He didn’t promise it would be easy, but He did promise He’d never leave you. And that’s enough.
Reflection/Challenge:
Today, reflect on how you’re responding to your hardships. Are you choosing Christ, even in what feels confusing or unfair? Say this out loud: “I choose faith, even in the fire. I choose Jesus, even in the storm. And I trust that He is still in control.”
Prayer:
Father God In the name of Jesus, I come to You with a weary heart, but a willing spirit. Today, I choose You over comfort, and faith over fear. I thank You that You are still in control. You are still good. Even when I don’t understand, I know that You are working all things together for my good. Remind me that no weapon formed against me will prosper. It will not today, not tomorrow, not ever. Hold me up in the middle of my storm. Restore my strength, renew my mind, and revive my hope. I trust You, Lord and I choose You again today. In Jesus’ name, Amen.