September 9, 2010 - Acts 14:22

"...strengthening the disciples and encouraging them to remain true to the faith. 'We must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God.'" Acts 14:22.
Paul and Barnabas traveled from town to town on their return trip to Antioch, visiting places where they had spent time. In each place, they gathered those who were committed to following Jesus in order to strengthen and encourage them in their walk of faith. It is interesting to note that the phrase used in the recounting of their encouragement was: "We must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God."
Paul did not promise them that they would experience the ‘good life’ or ‘prosperity’ in all areas of their lives, if they would do certain things. What he did promise, to all of us, was that in order to enter God's kingdom, we must go through many tough experiences. Growing up as a follower of Jesus in America, it is difficult for me to relate to the experiences of the early believers. A hardship for me might be when my wife and I have to use one car when our second car is getting worked on. Or perhaps it is not being able to buy that 46" flat screen TV and having to continue to use our outdated 27" TV. I can imagine hardships in an intellectual way, but it is very difficult for me to understand experientially what Paul is talking about.
Yet, Paul's audience had begun experiencing what life following Jesus truly meant. They were outcasts from their culture. They were being persecuted in ways similar to the things Paul had experienced. In today's world, believers from many nations can relate to Paul's words because of the severe persecution they have experienced.
Questions to consider: What hardships have you experienced? What do you think Paul means by this statement? How is going through hardships a clear indication that you are entering the kingdom of God?
Prayer: Father, give me eyes to see what Paul intends for me to see in this statement. Give me a heart that is willing to go through hardships for Your kingdom's sake and that is willing to serve You no matter what happens. Amen.