As we read through the section in the book of Acts about Paul’s third missionary trip, we learned that the region was far from a peaceful Christian oasis. It was a populous area that was essentially a melting pot. The area was a prime seaport and economic center, much like what Corinth was like in it’s earlier years.

With the huge influence of many, that also brought a lot of different view points, ideas and influences.  As unfolded in the Acts reading, there was an economic impact to the wide variety of desires and influences.  In reference, it could be very similar to how America might be a resemblence.

With the wide support of ideas and influences, there does get to be a situation where some individuals are impacted by situations and conditions that are not their own. This can impact a person’s way of life as well as their spiritual walk.

Can you share a situation in your life where you may feel impacted or influenced by things outside of your control or desires?

When people get challenged, limited or influenced by people with different motives and incentives, it can be difficult to stay focused or make progress in one’s own journey.

What are some challenge that you currently face in your walk as a Christian man? What objectives and desires seem elusive these days? Are their areas of your life that seem monumental or an endless battle?

Each of us has an internal desire for Peace. We know that Jesus has been called the Prince of Peace. We often refer to serenity as a refuge and that our main goal is to be at peace, secure and confident that serenity is ours. But in truthfulness, During challenging times we can be troubled and challenged ourselves. Are we angry with a family member or friend. Do we have a co-worker on our short list? Do we feel defeated? Do we have times when we feel worn out? In this world, we have been given this hope that a relationship with Jesus was going to make things better, but actually, there are times when they seem worse. There are times when we just want to quit and give up… those are the painful facts.

Do you currently have challenges you feel are taking you to a breaking point? Is the struggle unbearable?

The crazy situation we are in is not new. The situation has been a reoccurrence all the way back to Jesus time. Many people get excited and want to encourage people and religion is no difference. Some individuals want to provide hope, and they jump right out and point out all the good things and the desired things, but sidestep the difficult things. Over time each of us have been told of the peace, the joy the relief of following Jesus, but we still are in the grind. We can easily hear the voice of the enemy with “how is that working for you?”, “how you doing now?” and the doubt rises.  Jesus was clear that a relationship with him and dedication to the one true God, was not a cake walk. In the famous Beatitudes, Jesus preaches the Sermon on the Mount with raw clarity. From Matthew chapter 5:

¹Now when Jesus saw the crowds, he went up on a mountainside and sat down. His disciples came to him, ² and he began to teach them. 

The Beatitudes

He said:
³ Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
⁴ Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.
⁵ Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.
⁶ Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.
⁷ Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.
⁸ Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.
⁹ Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.
¹⁰ Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 

¹¹ Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. ¹² Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you. – Matthew 5:1-12 NIV

In our personal life, we can be challenged with our own desires and objectives and face the reality that we really do not feel blessed. Being a Christian does not always seem like the best choice we have made.

Which one, or ones, above can you relate to?

In this coming study of Ephesians, we will learn that what we are going through is not unique, that the struggle is real. That it is not a new thing, but it can actually be a part of our journey to embrace. In the first part of Ephesians Paul is going to solidify the basics of Christianity. To take us to the foundation that we have and give us clear direction, encouragement and hope that we long for.

In the times of struggle that we have shared this morning, we cannot ignore the challenges and we should never just suppress them. If you were not led to share what is truly bothering you during this session, don’t ignore it. Get with your accountability partner, get your thoughts out in a safe manner where you can openly share your thoughts, struggles and have the ability to ask questions that might be weighing on you.  This life is real and the life we have is difficult, there is no reason to pretend it is easy. Say engaged and don’t try to live life alone. Read the first couple chapters of Ephesians and get acquainted with the Ephesians and Paul’s investment.

 The New International Version. (2011). (Mt 5:1–12). Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan.