“At each place they went, they strengthened the lives of the believers and encouraged them to go deeper in their faith. And they taught them, “It is necessary for us to enter into the realm of God’s kingdom, because that’s the only way we will endure our many trials and persecutions.” (Acts 14:22)
I like how the Passion has this verse translated above. Others have it translated as “we must through many tribulations enter the Kingdom of God” or something close to this. So some will think and even create tribulations/persecutions in their life and mask it with this verse, thinking because of those things they will enter in.
It’s actually quite the opposite and aligns with what Jesus says, “These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)
Jesus also puts it this way, “Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock: and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock. But everyone who hears these sayings of Mine, and does not do them, will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand: and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it fell. And great was its fall.” (Matthew 7:24-27)
Notice the rain, flood, and wind was encountered by both the wise and foolish. Beloved, walking with Jesus is the ONLY hope we have to overcome any tribulation we may encounter in life. He is our peace, and He desires to be everyone’s peace, if they will turn to Him, trust and follow Him!!!