It isn't easy, you know.
This is a familiar saying in the Dominican Republic. It is often said at the end of a story of hardship, or by way of explaining how the lack of water, power, gas, money, transportation, or food complicates life.
The church in Montana is finding that it isn’t easy. In recent months members have faced numerous challenges. One of the older members fell ill with encephalitis and continues to suffer with seizures and weakness. One family is in crisis following marital infidelity. Another member is facing up to the need to end an immoral relationship of 15 years. A single mom is struggling to parent as Christ desires her to in the face of criticism from an alcoholic family member who lives with her. These are only the “major” trials, I won’t mention some of the minor squabbles that exist between individuals.
It isn’t easy, you know! But is there hope? Will this church implode as Satan attacks and seeks to destroy? Jesus said, “ UPON THIS ROCK I WILL BUILD MY CHURCH, AND THE GATES OF HADES WILL NOT OVERCOME IT.” (Matthew 16:18)
I recently listened to a sermon on Matthew 16 by John Piper. He made so many excellent points, but one that sticks out is: I will build MY church. Jesus owns it and does it. As I look at the ladies in my discipleship group who are facing giants of sin and hardship in their lives right now, I rest in Jesus’ commitment to them as a body. HE will build HIS church in Montana and the gate of Hades will not overcome it.
I think if Jesus were Dominican he would have said this to the many who came asking for healing and salvation and those desiring to follow Him. It isn’t easy, you know, rich young ruler:go and sell everything you have and follow Me. It isn’t easy, you know, Nicodemus, to be born again as an adult. It isn’t easy, you know, Peter to resist denying Me. It isn’t easy, you know, woman at the well, to leave the man you are with and follow Me.
I am also reminded of Paul’s words in Philippians 1:6: “being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” We are so blessed to trust in His faithfulness. Please pray with us for these tender young believers as they grow through trials as a body.
