Benefits of Pressure

“…we were pressed out of measure, above strength, insomuch that we despaired even of life.” —2 Corinthians 1:8

The book of 2 Corinthians is the most personal of Paul’s epistles.  He makes more references to his own spiritual battles than any other letter he wrote.  Christians sometimes imagine Paul to be this spiritual “iron man,” but Paul admits he had times of fear (7:5), frustration (12:8), and even despair (1:8).

Yet, it is when the pressure is “on” that we grow stronger.  Pressure can turn a lump of coal into a beautiful diamond.  Diamonds are enduring and valuable.  Pressure can do the same in a believer’s life.

1. Pressure equips us to be able to comfort others who are under pressure (1:4).  The Lord believes in “recycling”—He wants us to “recycle” the comfort He gives us to others.
2. Pressure develops in us a quality of endurance (1:6).
3. Pressure matures our faith (1:9).  Afflictions come to teach us “not to trust in ourselves, but in God who raises the dead.”
4. Pressure motivates us to pray and seek others to pray for us (1:11).

So, don’t complain about the pressures of life—Thank God for them. He is perfecting a diamond.