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We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed 2 Corinthians 4:8-9

In a chemistry class, the professor held up a silver coin and asked the students what would happen if he dropped it into a glass of acid. One student quickly replied, “Nothing — the coin won’t dissolve.”

Surprised, the professor asked, “How can you be so sure?”

The student smiled and said, “Because if it would, you wouldn’t drop it in.”

Life can sometimes feel like we’re being dropped into acid as we face circumstances that feel overwhelming — health struggles, financial stress, broken relationships, uncertainty about the future. But just like that professor knew the coin wouldn’t be harmed, God knows you won’t be destroyed either — because he’s holding you.

The apostle Paul knew what it was like to feel squeezed by life. In 2 Corinthians 4, he writes about being “afflicted,” “perplexed,” “persecuted,” and “struck down.” That’s real hardship. But Paul doesn’t stop at the pain. He insists that we are not crushed, not driven to despair, not forsaken, and not destroyed. Why? Because God is with us through it all. His presence doesn’t always remove the struggle, but it does carry us through it. He doesn’t promise an easy path, but he does promise that we won’t walk it alone.

You feel today like the weight is just too much -- but you’re not being crushed. You might not understand what’s happening or why — but you’re not hopeless. You might feel knocked down -- but that doesn’t mean you’re out for good. God won’t drop you into something you can’t get through with his help.

So, don’t let the struggle convince you that you’re defeated. You’re still standing — and that alone is a sign that God is working in you. What feels like pressure may be the very thing needed to strengthen your faith, build your character, and demonstrate God's power in your life.

So, hang in there. Your situation may feel uncertain, but God’s presence is sure.

- alan smith

 

Father, thank you for being my strength when I’m overwhelmed. Remind me that I’m not alone, not forgotten, and not defeated. Help me to trust that you are at work in every difficult circumstance, and that I’m still standing because you’re holding me. In Jesus’ name, amen.