Diamonds from Coal

DIAMONDS FROM COAL

Part 7 of 12 in Train to Reign Series

2 Corinthians 1:8

“We do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, about the hardships we suffered in the province of Asia. We were under great pressure, far beyond our ability to endure, so that we despaired even of life.”

Apostle Paul warns believers in Christ that life will bring hardship. We could survive poverty before enjoying abundance. We will watch friends leave, then make new friends. Many times we’ll cope under tremendous pressure, before life blossoms fair and bright. Praise God that we will grow through difficult times!

Remember, coal transforms to diamonds under enormous pressure. God wants diamonds—not fake costume jewelry—for His kids. God is present in every trouble. He’s busy flushing out the coal dust of sin from our lives. Coal dust impurities of the old sinful nature is refined or squeezed out of Jesus’ disciples. What remains are pure diamonds, God’s kids.

We’ll realize that God was working behind the scenes the whole time. What threatened to defeat us was what we rose above. Whatever controlled us disappeared. We’re now free to respond when God calls. He’s aligned us for works of service.

Ten year old Jeremy went with His fifteen year old brother Michael to a basketball game. Michael’s friends offered them some beer to drink. “No thanks,” Michael said.

Jeremy squirmed in his seat. He whispered, “Let me have some beer, Mike.”

Michael shook his head, “No.” He whispered back, “Not on my watch. Mom and Dad trust me to take care of you. I won’t bring you home with beer on your breath!”

Alcohol is just one temptation that lures kids to disobedience. Drugs are another. The thing about peer pressure is that peers are equals. Michael is being pressured by his little brother! Michael’s peers mock him behind his back. What’s wrong with drinking one beer? Peers try making you feel as though you are not one of them. They’re right! Christ bought you with His life. You have been set apart from the world. You are a beloved child of God. Almighty!

The pressure is on—especially when your “friends” see that you’re tempted to join them. Don’t think that you’ll die under the pressure. You won’t. God never allows His kids to be tempted beyond what they can endure. AND, He’ll always provide a way out (1 Corinthians 10:13).

You’re being transformed into a diamond! You are victorious!

Take Home Nugget

Surviving through trials teach believers how to comfort others. One valuable way we serve God is comforting others through their troubles.

Dearest Jesus,
Thank you for purchasing my salvation at such a high price. Remind me that my eternal life cost You Your life!
J.D. Griffith

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