THE CONVERSATION
Me: Did you see that Facebook post that had the quote…”strength is the product of struggle.” ?
Bro: hmmm… maybe. Not sure
Me: Well, I couldn’t get it outta my mind…then God began to reveal some heavy stuff.
I always feel a negative connotation to saying “I’m struggling this week” or whatever…like when we say we’re “being accountable”.
God said the reason I feel that way is because I’m not truly struggling….I’m just sinning-no bones about it”
Bro: Hmmm… Dang, powerful.
So what do you do with that info?
Me: If I were truly “struggling” I would be stronger, building up strength that sharpens my ability to recognize the temptation, progressing over the sin and stronger in resisting and overcoming the sin.
Bro: Right on. I get it.
Me: If I am not stronger, I am not struggling…I’m just sinning (giving into sin)
Bro And that is SO easy… I know that
Me: It’s a lie for me to say I’m “struggling” if I’ve already given into, or fallen, to the sin. Struggling is a positive thing…when I truly do it.
strug·gle /ˈstrəgəl/
Verb
Make forceful or violent efforts to get free of restraint or constriction.
Noun
A forceful or violent effort to get free of restraint or resist attack.
Synonyms
verb. fight – wrestle – strive – combat – contend – battle
noun. fight – battle – combat – conflict – contest – wrestle
Bro: Wow… never looked that up. Makes so much sense what was spoken to you. This is awesome… God spoke to you and you listened. Proud of you!
Me: I am struggling
Bro: You’re putting up a fight though?
Me: It’s a fight today, but I AM STRUGGLING! Not sinning!
This is why we work hard and continue to struggle, for our hope is in the living God, who is the Savior of all people and particularly of all believers.