Tight Squeeze

Tight Squeeze

Bible: 2 Corinthians 4:7-18

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In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world (JOHN 16:33).

I grew up in America, near a place called Tightsqueeze. It was named a century and a half ago when the owner of the general store and the local blacksmith built their businesses opposite each other at the edge of the only narrow road through town. The buildings were so close that horsedrawn carriages had to slow down to pass through, and travellers began to warn each other of the “tight squeeze” on that part of the road.

Life is full of pressure. Problems at home and school, big exams … many things can make us feel like the world is closing in.

Paul wasn’t a stranger to difficulty either. He suffered violent attacks as he talked about Jesus, and he struggled with illness. Yet he discovered an incredible truth through it all. “We have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all- surpassing power is from God and not from us. We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed” (2 CORINTHIANS 4:7-9). Even in extreme challenges, Paul found God faithfully kept him going through it all.

Even when pressures are all around us, we remain safe in our Saviour’s hands—nothing “will snatch” us out of them (JOHN 10:28)! He is always faithful and able to give us the strength and comfort we need.

WHEN PRESSURES ARE STRONG, GOD’S HANDS ARE STRONGER STILL.

Youth Edition – Our Daily Bread Ministries