“Therefore, since it is by God’s mercy that we are engaged in this ministry, we do not lose heart… But we have this treasure in clay jars, so that it may be made clear that this extraordinary power belongs to God and does not come from us. We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed;… So we do no lose heart.” (2 Corinthians 4:1, 2-9,16a NRSV)
As I thought of Paul’s statement, I remembered a story that was told at a California graduation. The speaker told about a young man who had received his diploma… and ten years later the graduate sent his diploma back to the university saying that the degree had not helped him obtain employment in his chosen field of work. The speaker, who was the former chancellor of the university, said that he sent the diploma back to the young man and told him to keep it, that he earned it. He went on to explain that the purpose of the university was to develop students who will be self-sufficient and involved with society, but what stuck with me was his statement to the young man: “It is not the purpose of a university to guarantee victory in life, but to equip one for the struggles of life.”
That is the purpose of the church as well. It is not the purpose of the faith to guarantee us victory, success, or immunity from trouble. The purpose of the church is to equip us with the power to face the struggles of life.
-- James W. Moore and Bob J. Moore in “Lord, Give Me Patience!... And Give It to Me Right Now!”
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