2 Corinthians 4 :17

‘For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory’
• DAILY READING – 1 Corinthians 11:17-34; 2 Kings 5; Obadiah 1
Nora Lam was a Chinese Christian missionary whose story of survival and faith in the face of Communist oppression has encouraged many people around the world. Her true life story is told in the movie ‘cry China’ produced by the Christian Broadcasting Network [TBN]. 

Nora Lam was adopted into a wealthy Shanghai family in 1941, and enjoyed a privileged life until the 1950’s, when a Cultural Revolution occurred in China. This revolution required all of China to come under one class of people–the working class. As a result, those who belonged to the upper-class of society were tortured and often killed. Because her family was wealthy, they became targets. Their home was seized and her father was arrested. Nora herself would later be arrested for being a Christian.  When she refused to denounce Christ, her captors commanded her to be executed.  Nora was blindfolded and pushed into a courtyard in the night before a firing squad. But as she prayed to God, suddenly a strange wind started to blow, and a storm began. On the official’s command, “Fire!” guns exploded. But at that very moment the courtyard was suddenly bathed in a heavenly light. A lightning bolt from heaven struck the courtyard, shaking the soldiers on the firing squad. Though the guns were fired, Nora was unharmed. God had miraculously spared her. 

Scared by the experience the soldiers made no further attempt to kill her, rather she was taken to serve in prison. And later through divine intervention Nora was released from prison. She came to the United States at the invitation of healing evangelist Kathryn Kuhlman, who gave Nora her platform to share her testimony. 

From there, Nora went around the world sharing her story and later founded the Nora Lam Ministries International, which continues to support Chinese house churches and Christian programs around the world.

Indeed we serve a supernatural God. He is the God that parts Red Seas, levels mountains,  and raises the dead. Though your circumstances may look impossible, it doesn’t limit God. No matter how tight or tough the corner you may find yourself, God can still do the impossible to bring deliverance to you. 

When Nora faced the firing squad it seemed as if it was over for her, yet God showed up amazingly and brought deliverance. God is able to save us in any situation. In fact when you’re in a situation that seems impossible, you’re in perfect position for God to show out in your life.

When the 3 Hebrew boys faced the fire, it looked as if it was over, yet God showed up right there in the midst of the fire and brought deliverance to them. 

Even when it seems too late to men, it is never too late for God. Sometimes God delays so that greater glory can be revealed. In John 11, it seemed as if Lazarus’ case was hopeless, yet Jesus showed up and brought about a resurrection that brought great glory to God. 

In Nora’s case her coming face to face with a firing squad, gave her a great testimony, and opportunity for worldwide evangelism that brought her even before kings.  

2 Corinthians 4:17 says ‘For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory’

When you’re in a difficult situation, very often this is for greater glory to be revealed in you. Regardless of your current circumstances, keep following God faithfully. As you do, God will begin to turn things around for your good and His glory.

Through what was meant to kill you, God will release such an anointing that will take you to unimagined heights. That difficult  situation will bring such glory into your life that the enemy would wish he never brought that situation your way. 

Romans 8:18 says ‘For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us’ 

In other words your sufferings will not be in vain. It will culminate in greater Glory in the end. The difficulties you are passing through are only preparing you for something better. 

This is why you must hold on to God’s Word, no matter how fierce the battle. That is why you must keep living right and doing right because your labour shall never be in vain.

Jesus said ‘In the world you will have challenges; but be of good cheer for I have overcome the world.’ Indeed Jesus has overcome for you. Let the devil give it his best shot – you will always come out on top because the greater One lives in you. Christ in you is the hope of glory. Therefore in every situation, keep giving praise to God, because   greater glory is coming your way in Jesus Name.  
PRAYER: Lord, please help me to always remain strong in faith, no matter how difficult things may sometimes look around me.  I thank You because in every situation, Your Glory is being revealed through me, in  Jesus Name.  

QUOTE 

God’s promises in Christ in your life may appear delayed, but never forget that delays are not denials.  WORDBITE 222. 

 [ADAPTED FROM THE BOOK FAITH CLASSICS]