By: Elizabeth Haarberg

The Purpose of Pressure

You can listen to today’s devotion by clicking this SoundCloud link.

“Pressure is a privilege.” I’ve read that many times and really do love that quote. I’ve also thought, when things are challenging, that all I want in that moment is peace, not pressure. Isn’t that the push and pull on Earth? Pressure means we are advancing or possibly causing problems for ourselves. Pressure is the very thing that may bring us to the cross or push us away.

“In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”
John 16:33 English Standard Version

The pressure is hard to manage at times but part of the reason for the difficulties in life is so we find a need for someone to save us. Unfortunately, many will look to a spouse, parent, or someone else to save them, but they are not able. It’s the perfect set up for humans who think they can do it themselves or have others do it for them; at some point, that will not be enough. We can’t be smart enough, wealthy enough, or athletic enough to solve some issue; it will get the best of us. Only then will some bend their knee to Jesus.

But why do we have to have pressure? We’re not in heaven yet, and if things were perfect here, would we ever want to leave? It would be heaven on Earth.

“Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.”
James 1:12 English Standard Version

Going through hard times create a pocket for us to lean on Jesus knowing we need God in our life. Sometimes the deeper desire for God is the result of experiencing pressure, but it’s not a formula. The decision we make when we’re pressed is up to us. We can turn toward or away from God when we are pressured; it’s a choice. The constant in the equation is that God is always drawing us in toward the divine love that only he can provide.

Copyright Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado