To struggle is to be human

Pink and Khalid sing a beautiful song that talks about how it hurts to be human. To struggle is to experience a core part of what it means to be human.

Even before you were formed in your mother's womb, you had to struggle through countless obstacles, fending off 250 million other sperm to win the race and make it into this world. 

Every day, I watch my 7-week old daughter struggle (with wailing and tears) as she tries to communicate her needs to us.

In a few months, she will no doubt struggle to get acquainted with her limbs as she attempts (and fails many times) to crawl and walk.

Some of life's struggles are necessary for efficient development. Some may seem pointless, or even unfair. Yet, we can take encouragement that human beings have proven to be able to endure great struggles.

The bible is full of stories of great men and women who endured great struggles, both internal and external, for the cause of Christ.

I think of Jesus' life and ministry on Earth. No other human being has been as connected to God, and yet still Jesus struggled. Like us, he struggled with both internal temptations as well as external pressures. Enduring through his struggles prepared Jesus to fulfil his ultimate purpose.

The early Church leaders struggled with persecution, sometimes to the point of death. Their determination paved the way for thousands of years of Christ-followers that we are still benefitting from today.

"The struggle you're in today, is developing the strength you need for tomorrow." 

- Robert Tew

Currently, most of the human population is struggling through the coronavirus pandemic. We have never had to deal with something like this before. There is a lot of uncertainty and fear about many things. We are exhausted, anxious and fed up. Many have suffered great loss. It feels as though this struggle is never going to end.

To struggle is to be human. Let us be encouraged by the reminder that many who have gone before us survived their struggles and were made stronger because of them. We can hope for a brighter tomorrow because of the struggles that we are facing today and the lessons that we are learning about God and the world.

We can endure in the knowledge that God is with us, even in the midst of our struggles.

"Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.”

- Deuteronomy 31:6 (NIV)

Image Source: DJ Johnson