Difficulties Expected

When we dedicate ourselves to God and His purposes (shown by circumcision in Gen 17, baptism in Acts 16) we are entering a great adventure. Now it must be said God doesn't promise that the adventure will be without struggle. In fact, it is more likely that we will have to endure many trials and difficulties along the way.
Abraham and Sarah endured years of childlessness. They had a promise from God but year followed year and still no baby. Anyone who has been barren knows how painful that waiting can be. Nehemiah was confronted with major challenges as well. Sanballat and Tobiah wanted to hinder his work. They tried ridicule, intrigue, threats, blackmail - they even infiltrated the ranks of the prophets. They did not want to see the prosperity of Jerusalem, but Nehemiah pushed through seeking to accomplish the work to which he was called.
Paul and Company had a similar experience. They were clearly directed to Macedonia, but when they went there very quickly they were opposed. They were falsely accused and thrown in jail. But they kept moving ahead pursuing the work God gave to them.
So if trials are to be expected for the workers of the Lord, how do we carry on despite them? Part of the answer is to cling to the promises of God. God told Abraham that he would be a father of many nations and that he would have a child through Sarah. Abraham believed God and that seemed to direct his actions.
So what promise can we cling to today? Jesus perhaps gave the greatest promise in Matthew 16. He said He would build His church and that the gates of hell would not prevail against it. That seemed to sustain men like Paul to endure enormous trials. It is certainly sufficient enough to sustain us today as well.
The beautiful thing is that when we continue to trust God and cling to His promise even amidst severe trial, great things happen. Abraham and Sarah birthed a miracle child. Nehemiah completed the wall to the glory of God. Paul and Company experienced a miraculous delivery from jail, but more importantly they saw many souls delivered from the bondage of sin.
Have you committed your way to the Lord? Have you signed up for the adventure that will be yours as you pursue His purposes? Then know that the way may be challenging, but as you cling to the Lord and His promises, you will get to see God work in wonderful ways. May God help us all to stay the course and believe that He "will build His church".