Encouragement for times of Hardship

Do you ever wonder why people hurt you? It almost seems deliberate some of the time, and most of the time it can be. Have you ever just sat and cried about in frustration, "Why? If there is a God that loves me, why does He let this happen?" I've been there. I think we've all been there. Fortunately, as I was reading Hebrews it enlightened me to stay strong. I know that it sounds incredibly cliche`; it's everywhere on the radio, tv, "stay strong." The Army promotes strength, asking the viewers if they are "Army Strong." However, there is a peace when the God of all creation tells us to stay strong:

"Because God has said: Never will I leave you, never will I forsake you. So we say with confidence, the Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?" (Hebrews 13:5-6)

Moreover, why should we continue to fight for what we believe in, what is right, when we get hurt? It seems to happen everyday, from everyone! But God shows mercy to His children and comes to rescue those who are weak and weary. Paul makes it clear in Philippians when he says this:

"It is right for me to feel this way about all of you, since I have you in my heart; for whether I am in chains or defending and confirming the gospel, all of you share in God's grace with me." (Philippians 1:7)

There is hope for His children! Yes, the world will hurt you. People will hurt you everyday because this world is not what God intended for it to be when he created it in Genesis. Because of Adam and Eve's sin, the world has become less and less pure as the centuries went on, until it became the world we live in today. Because of the impurity of the world, it is very common for Christians to get hurt daily, especially for being followers of Jesus Christ. But we shouldn't feel upset or try to get even when we get hurt; instead we should consider it joy! As James said,

"Consider it pure joy, my brothers, when you face troubles of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance." - (James 1:2-3)

My challenge to you is, whenever you get hurt, or feel frustrated by imperfect people, give thanks to God! Because no sooner than the blink of an eye will God send His son from His right hand down to conquer the world in flesh! Will you do it?