Useful Bible Studies > Hebrews Commentary > chapter 12
It is very wrong to pretend that Christians will have no real difficulties in this world. Sometimes people do give that impression when they urge someone to become a Christian. But it is very wrong.
When a person becomes a Christian, they join in a battle. It is a battle between God, and the evil forces that control this world. Although we do not see that war, it is real. It is the most important war that exists anywhere. And we do see its effects.
For clear evidence of that fight, we only have to think about Jesus’ life. Jesus was completely good, so there was no proper reason for anyone to oppose him. But evil people were constantly opposing him. And on many occasions, they tried to kill him (for example, Mark 3:6; Luke 4:29; John 7:19 and Matthew 26:4).
Christians are in that same battle. So of course evil forces oppose them. Of course they will have problems and difficulties. They have the problems and difficulties that everyone suffers. And in addition, they may have extra problems and difficulties because of their relationship with God.
But Christians do not need to be afraid of their difficulties. God is stronger then the devil; and he makes Christians strong during their troubles, too (1 John 4:4). As they think about Jesus, God will give them the courage to stand firm. As they trust him, he will give them the power to go on (Isaiah 40:31).
The battle is not their battle, but God’s battle. They are on God’s side, so God supports them. Nobody can overcome God. And nobody will separate them from the love of God, their father (Romans 8:31-39).
Next part: When Christians die for their beliefs (Hebrews 12:4)
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© 2014, Keith Simons.