Strengthening the souls of the disciples, exhorting them to continue in the faith, and saying, "We must through many tribulations enter the kingdom of God."
Acts 14:22
Recommended Reading
One of the unexplained events in the book of Acts is why young John Mark deserted Paul and Barnabas on their first missionary journey (Acts 13:13). Could it have been because of their trials on the island of Cypress? A sorcerer named Elymas tried to prevent Paul and Barnabas from preaching to the Roman official. Maybe John Mark wondered if their mission was truly in the will of God.
Luke 14:25-27
It's natural to think that obedience leads to tranquility. But just the opposite is often true: Obedience to God can result in trials. Storms often come because we have been obedient, not disobedient. That was certainly true of those in the New Testament. The four Gospels and Acts recount one attack and obstacle after another upon those who were wholly committed to fulfilling God's calling. Every follower of Jesus should get this matter settled up front: The deeper we go into the kingdom of God, the more likely we are to be resisted.
If you are obeying God and in a storm at the same time, you are following in the footsteps of the heroes of the faith.
I find that doing the will of God leaves me with no time for disputing about His plans.
George MacDonald
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