Did you ever think of how those wonderful Biblical words of comfort were handed down to millions through the ages? The New Testament consists of 27 books. Paul wrote about half of them. Most were actually letters written while he was in prison. He wrote them as an encouragement to the new churches that were struggling throughout the region that we call Asia Minor.
Paul was in the worst of conditions, dungeons with just enough to keep one alive while awaiting trial and certain condemnation. But what if Paul had not been imprisoned? I am sure he would have gone to those early churches in person. The letters would have not been written and all of mankind would have been denied wonderful hope that the message of Jesus Christ brings.
Sometimes God asks us all to pay a price to be a part of his (more important) message of salvation. What an honor to be chosen to be a part of His plan.
As I write this, the words of a favorite Gospel hymn go around in my head;
In shady green pasture so rich and so sweet,
God leads His dear children along
Where cool water's flow bathes our weary feet
God leads His dear children along
Some through the water and some through the flood
Some through the fire, but all through the blood.
Some through the sorrow that life brings us all,
In the night season and all the daylong.
Sometimes on the mountain where the sun shines so bright
God leads His dear children along
Sometimes in the valley in the darkness of night
God leads His dear children along
Some through the water and some through the flood
Some through the fire, but all through the blood.
Some through the sorrow that life brings us all,
In the night season and all the daylong.
