Title: When the Heat Is On: Faith Under Pressure.

2 Corinthians 4:8-9  We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair;

Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed;

Devotion: In our modern vocabulary, we talk often about “working under pressure”—tight deadlines, weighty responsibilities, and emotional overwhelm. But though the Bible doesn’t use that phrase, it offers timeless wisdom for weathering the storms of stress and trial. God hasn’t left us without a blueprint for navigating life’s most intense moments.

  “We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed…” (2 Corinthians 4:8-9) These words paint a vivid picture of resilience. Life may squeeze us from all directions—confusion, rejection, disappointment—but we’re never forsaken. We bend, but by God’s grace, we don’t break. His sustaining power keeps us from despair when despair seems like the only option.

  When pressure mounts, the Apostle Paul urges us not to panic—but to pray. *“Do not be anxious about anything…”* (Philippians 4:6-7). Here is the divine exchange: when we release our anxieties in honest prayer, we receive God’s peace in return. It’s not a peace tied to solved problems but one that defies understanding, guarding our hearts even when the chaos continues.

  James doesn’t just acknowledge pressure—he reframes it: “Consider it pure joy whenever you face trials…” (James 1:2-3). Why? Because pressure produces something valuable. It purifies faith, births perseverance, and forges spiritual maturity. In the fire of adversity, the rough edges of our character are softened and strengthened.

  Then there’s this bold reassurance: “Do not fear… I will strengthen you and help you.” (Isaiah 41:10). God doesn’t wait for things to calm down before stepping in. He is present 'in the middle' of the pressure. When the weight is too heavy, His arms hold us up. When our minds race and our hearts tremble, His voice steadies us.

 Taken together, these verses teach a deeper truth: pressure isn’t proof that we’re off course. Sometimes, it’s the forge where faith is refined. We’re not alone in the weight—we’re held, guided, and grown through it.

  So today, if you feel pressed, remember this: you're not being crushed. You’re being strengthened. And the God who walks with you knows exactly how much you can bear—and how much stronger you’ll be on the other side.

 We will continue tomorrow.

©Dr Joel Olanrewaju, gbemide09@gmail.com.

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