In this sermon, we learned that even when we are facing trials and tribulations, we should never stop serving God and others. Just like Paul (who was accused from all sides, shipwrecked, beaten, and endured all sorts of other trials) we should continue to bless those around us, even if they do not deserve it or are even part of our suffering. We should also remember that God has had mercy on us and spared us from the consequences of our sins. We should, therefore, be grateful for His love and grace and strive to love and serve others in return.
We all long for seasons where life feels blessed. When things are working. When joy feels close. When faith feels easy.
But we often assume that God’s favor only looks like comfort and clarity. We quietly believe that struggle means distance. That discipline means disapproval. That dry seasons mean God has stepped back.
Hebrews reminds us of a gentler truth. God’s love does not leave when life gets hard. In fact, sometimes His love is most active there. “The Lord disciplines the one he loves” (Hebrews 12). Not to punish. Not to shame. But to heal. To form. To produce fruit that lasts.
This is an invitation to trust Jesus in every season. To receive His love even when it comes through pruning. And to abide in Him together… believing that every moment held in Christ is marked by grace.
