It’s a rough road that leads to the heights of greatness.
Seneca

In typical Stoic fashion, Seneca reminds us that the accomplishments that are considered great are often the most difficult to achieve. If it was easy, then everyone could do it. Stoicism seeks to accept what is and does not allow oneself to be controlled by our desire for pleasure or our fear of pain. You realize that life doesn’t get easier, but you get better.

Oswald Chambers gives us a helpful perspective as we face challenges along the way, “Does it really matter that our circumstances are difficult? Why shouldn’t they be! If we give way to self-pity and indulge in the luxury of misery, we remove God’s riches from our lives and hinder others from entering into His provision. No sin is worse than the sin of self-pity, because it removes God from the throne of our lives, replacing Him with our own self-interests” (My Utmost for His Highest, May 16). May you be encouraged and ready to face life’s challenges as you follow the example of the Apostle Paul as he was . . .

strengthening the souls of the disciples, encouraging them to continue in the faith, and saying, “Through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God.” (Acts 14:22)

RickAssociate Pastor – Discipleship.  The Church at LifePark

Professor of Discipleship, Columbia International University

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