The Key to Surviving Tough Times

“By faith Moses, when he was born, was hidden for three months by his parents, because they saw he was a beautiful child; and they were not afraid of the king’s edict. By faith Moses, when he had grown up, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter, choosing rather to endure ill-treatment with the people of God than to enjoy the passing pleasures of sin, considering the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures of Egypt; for he was looking to the reward. By faith he left Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king; for he endured, as seeing Him who is unseen. By faith he kept the Passover and the sprinkling of the blood, so that he who destroyed the firstborn would not touch them. By faith they passed through the Red Sea as though they were passing through dry land; and the Egyptians, when they attempted it, were drowned.” Hebrews 11:23-29

The sign next to a new condominium development reads: “For trouble free living...” That certainly would be nice if it were true, but we all know that trials in this life are just as certain as death and taxes. Physical, emotional, financial, or moral monsoons can strike hard at the believer’s foundation of faith in Christ. When (not if) the storms come, we do well to look to Moses’ example of standing strong in the face of affliction.

Moses withstood the intense pressure of both exile and leadership by a fixed focus of faith on God: “for he was looking to the reward” (Heb. 11:26). Your troubles are guaranteed to cease in heaven. Until that time, your trials may continue on earth, but the rewards of faith, despite the circumstances, can be enjoyed in this life.

The peace that comes from knowing God is in control, the joy that flows from loving Him, the strength that springs from His presence, sustain us in our trouble: “for he endured, as seeing Him who is unseen” (Heb. 11:27). In the midst of your affliction - regardless of its nature - Christ is with you. He will never leave you or forsake you.

“For momentary, light affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory...” 2 Corinthians 4:17