DO NOT FAINT IN TRIBULATIONS

DO NOT FAINT IN TRIBULATIONS

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Ephesians 3:1-13

Key Verse:“Wherefore I desire that ye faint not at my tribulations for you, which is your glory.” — Ephesians 3:13 (KJV)

Supporting Texts: 2 Corinthians 4:8-9, 16-18; James 1:2-4; Romans 8:18; Psalm 34:19; Isaiah 40:29-31; Hebrews 12:1-3; 1 Peter 5:10.

Description: This message encourages believers to remain steadfast in faith during tribulations, knowing that suffering does not cancel God's purpose, weaken His faithfulness, or destroy the glory He has prepared for His people.

INTRODUCTION

Tribulations are among the realities of the Christian life. Although we serve a loving, powerful, and faithful God, we are not promised a life completely free from opposition, hardship, persecution, disappointment, or seasons of pressure. Jesus Himself said that in the world we would have tribulation, but He also commanded us to be of good cheer because He has overcome the world (John 16:33). The presence of trouble does not necessarily mean that God has abandoned us or that we have missed His purpose. Sometimes, challenges arise because we live in a fallen world; at other times, they come because we are faithfully carrying out God's assignment.

In Ephesians 3:13, Apostle Paul appeals to the believers not to faint because of his tribulations. Paul was suffering imprisonment because of his ministry and commitment to the gospel, particularly his calling to proclaim Christ to the Gentiles. Instead of allowing the believers to interpret his suffering as evidence of defeat, he explained that his tribulations were connected with their glory. His circumstances appeared restrictive, but the gospel was still advancing. His chains could confine his body, but they could not imprison the purpose of God. Paul teaches us that we must not judge God's work only by outward appearances.

To faint means to lose heart, become discouraged, surrender hope, or grow weary to the point of abandoning one's responsibility. Many people begin their Christian journey with enthusiasm but become discouraged when prayers seem unanswered, opposition increases, or progress becomes slow. However, God's Word calls us to endure, trusting that He remains faithful even in difficult seasons. We may feel weary, but we must not give up our faith. We may weep, but we must not surrender our hope. We may encounter tribulations, but through God's grace, we can remain steadfast until His purpose is fulfilled.

1. UNDERSTAND THAT TRIBULATIONS ARE PART OF THE CHRISTIAN JOURNEY

Tribulation is not always a sign of divine displeasure. Scripture contains numerous examples of faithful servants of God who encountered suffering, opposition, and hardship while walking in obedience. We must therefore avoid the assumption that every difficulty means we are outside God's will.

Understanding this truth prepares us to respond to challenges with spiritual maturity. Instead of asking only, “Why is this happening to me?” we can also ask, “How can I remain faithful to God through this situation, and what does His Word require of me?”

a) Jesus Warned Us About Tribulation (John 16:33)

Jesus told His disciples that they would experience tribulation in the world. He did not hide the reality of opposition from them. Yet He encouraged them to be of good cheer because He had overcome the world.

The Christian life is not a promise of uninterrupted comfort. We may encounter financial pressure, misunderstanding, persecution, sickness, grief, or disappointment. Nevertheless, we have a Saviour who has overcome the world. Our confidence is not based on the absence of trouble but on the victory and presence of Christ.

b) Faithfulness Does Not Exempt Us From Opposition (2 Timothy 3:12)

Paul teaches that all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will face persecution. A life of righteousness may challenge ungodly practices and attract resistance from people who oppose biblical truth.

We must not compromise our convictions merely to avoid criticism. At the same time, we must examine our conduct humbly, because not every conflict is persecution for righteousness' sake. When opposition comes because we are faithfully obeying God, we should remain steadfast without hatred, pride, or revenge.

c) Tribulations Can Test and Strengthen Our Faith (James 1:2-4)

James explains that the trying of our faith produces patience, and that patience must have its perfect work. Trials reveal areas where our faith needs strengthening and teach us to depend on God rather than on our own resources.

A test of faith is not pleasant, but God can use difficult experiences to develop perseverance, maturity, compassion, and spiritual endurance. We should not celebrate suffering for its own sake; rather, we should trust God to produce good fruit in us while we walk through it.

d) God Remains Present in Difficult Seasons (Isaiah 43:2)

God promised His people that when they passed through waters and fire, He would be with them. The promise was not that they would never encounter dangerous situations, but that His presence would sustain them through them.

When you pass through a difficult season, do not conclude that you are alone. Keep praying, hold on to God's Word, seek godly counsel, and receive appropriate practical help. The presence of trouble does not mean the absence of God.

Biblical Example: Joseph in Egypt (Genesis 39:19-23)

Joseph was falsely accused and imprisoned despite his commitment to righteousness. Yet the Lord was with him and showed him mercy. His imprisonment did not cancel God's purpose for his life. Joseph's story reminds us that a difficult chapter is not necessarily the end of our story.

2. DO NOT INTERPRET YOUR TRIBULATIONS AS THE END OF GOD'S PURPOSE

One of the enemy's greatest strategies is to make believers interpret temporary hardship as permanent defeat. When a door closes, a plan fails, or an answer delays, discouragement may whisper that God's purpose has ended. But Scripture teaches that God's faithfulness cannot be measured by one painful season.

Paul's imprisonment did not mean that his ministry was over. Even while restricted, he continued to serve God, encourage the church, and advance the gospel through his letters. His example shows us that God can continue working through us even when our circumstances are far from ideal.

a) God's Purpose Can Continue Through Adversity (Genesis 50:20)

Joseph told his brothers that although they intended evil against him, God meant it for good, to bring about the preservation of many lives. The wrong committed against Joseph was real, but it did not defeat God's ability to work towards His purposes.

This does not mean that evil becomes good or that every painful event is directly caused by God. It means that human wrongdoing cannot ultimately prevent God from working out His purposes in those who trust Him. Do not allow another person's misconduct or a painful experience to persuade you that God has finished with your life.

b) Your Present Circumstances Do Not Define Your Final Outcome (2 Corinthians 4:17)

Paul describes affliction as momentary in comparison with the eternal weight of glory being worked out for believers. He was not pretending that suffering was insignificant; he was comparing present hardships with the greatness of eternity.

When you are in pain, it can be difficult to see beyond the present moment. Yet your present situation is not the whole story. Continue to trust God, make wise decisions, and fulfil your responsibilities while keeping your eyes on His eternal promises.

c) God Can Work Through Closed Doors and Restrictions (Philippians 1:12-14)

Paul explained that the things which happened to him had contributed to the furtherance of the gospel. His imprisonment became an opportunity for the message of Christ to reach people who might not otherwise have heard him.

Some circumstances restrict our plans, but they may also create opportunities for service, reflection, learning, or ministry in different ways. We must ask God for wisdom to recognise the responsibilities still available to us rather than becoming paralysed by what we cannot do.

d) God's Faithfulness Is Greater Than Your Changing Circumstances (Lamentations 3:22-23)

Jeremiah declared that it was of the Lord's mercies that God's people were not consumed, because His compassions failed not. His mercies were new every morning, and great was His faithfulness.

Circumstances can change overnight, but God's character does not change. When life becomes uncertain, return to what you know about God from His Word. He is merciful, righteous, wise, and faithful. Our feelings may fluctuate, but His character remains dependable.

Biblical Example: Paul and Silas in Prison (Acts 16:22-26)

Paul and Silas were beaten and imprisoned while serving God. Instead of surrendering to despair, they prayed and sang praises at midnight. God intervened, and the prison doors opened. Their worship did not mean that their pain was imaginary; it demonstrated that their circumstances had not taken away their faith. Their witness also contributed to the salvation of the jailer and his household.

3. STRENGTHEN YOUR INNER MAN IN TIMES OF TRIBULATION

Tribulations often attack the inner life before they visibly affect anything else. Discouragement can weaken courage, repeated disappointment can disturb peace, and prolonged pressure can make prayer seem difficult. For this reason, believers must learn to strengthen their inner man through God's Word, prayer, the Holy Spirit, and fellowship with mature Christians.

Paul prayed in Ephesians 3:16 that believers would be strengthened with might by God's Spirit in the inner man. This prayer comes immediately before his encouragement not to faint in tribulations. Spiritual endurance is not produced by human determination alone; we need the sustaining work of God within us.

a) Draw Strength From the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 3:16)

Paul prayed that believers would be strengthened with might by God's Spirit in the inner man. This strength is deeper than physical energy or emotional excitement. It is the spiritual resilience that enables us to remain faithful under pressure.

When you feel weak, ask the Holy Spirit to renew your strength. Do not assume that you must carry every burden through personal determination. Make room for prayer, worship, reflection on Scripture, and the counsel of mature believers. God's strength can sustain you even when your own strength feels exhausted.

b) Feed Your Faith With God's Word (Romans 10:17)

Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God. During tribulations, our minds can become filled with fearful predictions, discouraging reports, and negative interpretations. We must deliberately return our attention to God's truth.

Read and meditate on Scripture, remembering His promises and the examples of those who trusted Him. The Word does not require us to deny reality; it teaches us how to understand reality in the light of God's character and purposes. Let Scripture correct your thoughts, guide your choices, and renew your hope.

c) Maintain a Life of Prayer (Philippians 4:6-7)

Paul instructs believers to bring their requests to God through prayer and supplication with thanksgiving. He promises that God's peace, which surpasses understanding, will guard their hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

Prayer may not immediately change every external circumstance, but it brings our burdens before God and helps us receive His peace and wisdom. Be honest with God about your struggles. Ask for help, pray for those involved, and thank Him for His faithfulness even while you wait for an answer.

d) Do Not Isolate Yourself From Godly Fellowship (Hebrews 10:24-25)

The Bible encourages believers not to forsake assembling together, but to encourage one another. Tribulations can tempt us to withdraw from church, avoid trusted friends, and carry our burdens in silence.

God often uses other believers to comfort, counsel, correct, and strengthen us. When you are weary, seek support from mature and trustworthy Christians. If your difficulty involves serious emotional, financial, medical, or family concerns, do not hesitate to seek appropriate professional or practical assistance as well. Receiving help is not a sign of spiritual failure.

Biblical Example: David Strengthened Himself in the Lord (1 Samuel 30:1-8)

When David and his men returned to Ziklag and discovered that their families had been taken captive and their possessions destroyed, they wept until they had no more strength. David also faced the threat of being stoned by his distressed followers. Yet Scripture says that David encouraged himself in the Lord his God. He then sought God's direction before taking action. His experience teaches us to turn to God for renewed strength and guidance when everything seems to be falling apart.

4. KEEP YOUR EYES ON ETERNAL GLORY, NOT ONLY PRESENT SUFFERING

Tribulations become especially discouraging when we focus exclusively on what we are losing, how long we have suffered, or what others appear to enjoy. Scripture invites us to look beyond the present moment and remember the eternal hope we have in Christ.

Paul endured imprisonment, rejection, beatings, and many other hardships. Yet he did not allow present suffering to become the only lens through which he viewed life. He understood that the glory God has prepared for His people far exceeds the temporary afflictions of this age.

a) Present Suffering Cannot Compare With Coming Glory (Romans 8:18)

Paul reckons that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. This does not minimise pain or suggest that grieving believers lack faith. It reminds us that suffering is not the final reality for those who belong to Christ.

There are experiences in this life that we may not fully understand. Nevertheless, we can trust that God has promised eternal life and the final restoration of His people. Our hope reaches beyond present circumstances into the certainty of His eternal kingdom.

b) Look Beyond What Is Seen (2 Corinthians 4:18)

Paul encourages believers to look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. The visible world contains genuine difficulties, but it does not reveal the whole of God's work or the fullness of His promises.

This does not mean neglecting practical responsibilities. It means refusing to let visible obstacles become the only basis for our decisions and expectations. We acknowledge the facts, take wise action, and continue to trust the God whose promises extend beyond what our eyes can presently see.

c) Fix Your Eyes on Jesus (Hebrews 12:2-3)

Hebrews calls us to look unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith. It also urges us to consider Him, who endured the cross and the hostility of sinners, so that we do not become weary and faint in our minds.

Jesus understands suffering. He endured rejection, humiliation, and the cross, yet He remained obedient to the Father. When we are tempted to give up, reflecting on Christ's endurance reminds us that faithful obedience is more important than immediate comfort.

d) Remember That God Has Promised Eternal Life (John 11:25-26)

Jesus declared that He is the resurrection and the life, and that those who believe in Him shall live even though they die. The Christian hope is not limited to earthly success, health, wealth, or longevity. It includes the promise of resurrection and everlasting life with Christ.

This eternal perspective gives us courage in grief, persecution, and uncertainty. We should pray for deliverance and healing where needed, but our ultimate hope rests in Jesus Christ, who has conquered death and promised eternal life to His people.

Biblical Example: Stephen's Faithfulness at His Death (Acts 7:54-60)

Stephen faced violent opposition because of his testimony about Christ. Even as he was being stoned, he looked steadfastly towards heaven and committed himself to the Lord. His death was painful and unjust, but his faithfulness demonstrated that his hope was not controlled by earthly circumstances. His example reminds us that Christian victory is ultimately measured by faithfulness to Christ, not merely by escape from suffering.

5. ENDURE WITH PATIENCE AND REFUSE TO GIVE UP

Endurance is the ability to remain faithful through difficulty without abandoning the truth or the responsibilities God has given us. Many people can begin well when the path is easy, but spiritual maturity is revealed when obedience requires patience.

Paul did not ask the Ephesian believers to pretend that his imprisonment was pleasant. He asked them not to faint because of it. In the same way, we must learn to endure without allowing pain to turn into bitterness, delay to become unbelief, or opposition to drive us away from our calling.

a) Do Not Grow Weary in Doing Good (Galatians 6:9)

Paul encourages believers not to be weary in well-doing, for in due season they shall reap if they faint not. Doing good can become exhausting when our efforts seem unnoticed or when people respond with ingratitude.

Nevertheless, we must continue to do what is right. Serve faithfully, love sincerely, speak truthfully, and maintain integrity. The promise of a harvest is not a licence to demand a particular earthly reward on our schedule; it is an encouragement to remain faithful, trusting God with the outcome.

b) Run Your Race With Patience (Hebrews 12:1)

The writer of Hebrews calls believers to lay aside every weight and the sin that so easily besets them, and to run with patience the race set before them. Every believer has a personal journey of obedience and growth.

Do not measure your progress solely by comparing yourself with other people. Remove distractions, deal with sinful habits, fulfil your responsibilities, and continue moving forward. Endurance is not about moving faster than everyone else; it is about remaining faithful to Christ throughout your race.

c) Wait on the Lord for Renewed Strength (Isaiah 40:31)

Isaiah declares that those who wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength. They shall mount up with wings as eagles, run without being weary, and walk without fainting.

Waiting on God is not passive laziness. It involves trusting Him, seeking His direction, and continuing in the responsibilities He has already given us. When your strength is low, allow God to renew you through prayer, Scripture, rest, godly fellowship, and practical steps that support your wellbeing.

d) Remember That God Can Restore You (1 Peter 5:10)

Peter writes that after believers have suffered for a while, the God of all grace will perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle them. This is a powerful reminder that suffering is not beyond God's ability to redeem and that He can sustain His people through it.

Restoration may not always look exactly as we imagined, and not every difficulty ends immediately. Yet God remains able to strengthen His people, mature their character, restore hope, and establish them in faith. Continue to entrust your future to Him.

Biblical Example: Job's Endurance (Job 1:20-22; James 5:11)

Job experienced devastating losses, yet he continued to turn towards God in his grief. His story includes deep anguish and difficult questions, showing that endurance does not mean the absence of pain. James later points to Job as an example of patience and reminds believers of the Lord's compassion and mercy. Job's experience encourages us to remain honest before God while refusing to abandon Him.

6. LET YOUR TRIBULATIONS BECOME AN OPPORTUNITY FOR TESTIMONY

The way believers respond to tribulation can influence the people around them. When we continue trusting God, treating people with integrity, and serving faithfully under pressure, our lives can become a testimony to His sustaining grace.

This does not mean we should hide our pain or feel compelled to appear strong at every moment. Biblical faith allows lament, honest questions, and the expression of grief. What matters is that our struggles do not cause us to abandon Christ or surrender the hope we have in Him.

a) Your Endurance Can Encourage Other Believers (2 Corinthians 1:3-4)

Paul describes God as the Father of mercies and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in our tribulations so that we can comfort others. The comfort we receive from God can become a source of strength for those who are facing similar difficulties.

When God sustains you through a trial, you may later be able to encourage someone who feels overwhelmed. Your testimony should be shared with humility and sensitivity, recognising that other people may have different experiences and need different forms of support.

b) Your Faithfulness Can Advance the Gospel (Philippians 1:12-14)

Paul's imprisonment created opportunities for the gospel to spread and encouraged other believers to speak the Word more boldly. His example shows that hardship does not automatically render ministry fruitless.

Even when you cannot do everything you once did, ask God to show you what remains possible. You may be able to pray, write, encourage someone, mentor a younger believer, or share your testimony. Let your limitations lead you to seek fresh wisdom rather than assume that your usefulness has ended.

c) Your Conduct Can Reveal Christ to Others (1 Peter 2:12)

Peter urges believers to maintain honest conduct among those who do not share their faith. Our behaviour during difficult seasons can either strengthen or weaken the witness of the gospel.

Respond to unfair treatment without becoming dishonest. Refuse to repay evil for evil. Speak with grace, maintain appropriate boundaries, and seek justice through lawful and wise means when necessary. A Christlike response does not mean tolerating abuse or refusing help; it means allowing the character of Christ to guide how we respond.

d) Give God Glory Through Your Steadfastness (Matthew 5:16)

Jesus teaches His disciples to let their light shine before others so that people may see their good works and glorify the Father in heaven. Our steadfastness should direct attention to God's grace rather than to personal greatness.

When you remain honest under pressure, show compassion in adversity, and continue serving faithfully, your life can point others towards Christ. The goal is not to impress people with a performance of strength but to demonstrate the sustaining grace of God in genuine human weakness.

Biblical Example: Paul's Ministry Through Imprisonment (Philippians 1:12-18)

Paul continued to rejoice that Christ was being preached, even while he was imprisoned and some people preached with improper motives. He did not pretend that every attitude around him was right, but he refused to allow his difficult circumstances to extinguish his commitment to the gospel. His example teaches us to remain focused on Christ and faithful to our assignment even when our situation is painful or imperfect.

CONCLUSION

Ephesians 3:13 calls us not to faint in tribulations. Paul's appeal reminds us that hardship does not automatically mean defeat, rejection, or the cancellation of God's purpose. The apostle was imprisoned, yet the gospel continued to advance, and his suffering did not erase the spiritual blessing his ministry brought to the church. In the same way, we must not allow present difficulties to destroy our confidence in God. Tribulations may test our faith, but through the Holy Spirit, the Word of God, prayer, and the support of fellow believers, we can receive strength to remain steadfast. We may become weary, but we can seek help; we may grieve, but we can continue to hope; we may face opposition, but we can remain faithful to Christ.

Therefore, do not surrender your faith because of what you are passing through. Keep your eyes on Jesus, strengthen your inner man, seek God's wisdom, and continue doing what is right. Do not compare your journey with another person's journey, and do not interpret every delay as a denial of God's purpose. Take practical steps where necessary, seek godly counsel, and receive appropriate help when you need it. Remember that the Lord is compassionate and faithful, and that your ultimate hope is secure in Christ. Let your life demonstrate perseverance, holiness, courage, and trust in God until you finish your race faithfully.

PRAYER POINTS

1. Father, strengthen my heart by Your Holy Spirit and help me not to faint, lose hope, or abandon my faith during tribulations, in Jesus name.

2. O Lord, deliver me from discouragement, despair, and every negative thought that seeks to make me believe that my present challenges have ended Your purpose for my life, in Jesus name.

3. Father, renew my strength through Your Word and teach me to depend on Your grace whenever my own strength is exhausted, in Jesus name.

4. Lord Jesus, help me to keep my eyes on You and to remember Your faithfulness when circumstances become difficult and answers appear delayed, in Jesus name.

5. Father, give me wisdom to respond to trials with patience, integrity, humility, and obedience rather than bitterness, fear, or revenge, in Jesus name.

6. O God, surround me with godly people who will encourage my faith, offer wise counsel, and help me remain steadfast through difficult seasons, in Jesus name.

7. Father, turn every experience through which You sustain me into an opportunity to comfort others and strengthen the faith of fellow believers, in Jesus name.

8. Lord, grant me grace to continue doing good, fulfilling my responsibilities, and serving faithfully even when my efforts are not immediately rewarded, in Jesus name.

9. Father, restore my spiritual joy, renew my hope, and establish my heart in the assurance of Your mercy and faithfulness, in Jesus name.

10. O Lord, help me to finish my race faithfully, overcome every temptation to give up, and bring glory to Your name through my life, in Jesus name.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS

1. You will receive fresh strength from the Holy Spirit in every season of weakness, and tribulations will not cause you to abandon your faith or turn away from the Lord, in the mighty name of Jesus.

2. You will not allow temporary hardship to define your future; you will continue to trust God's wisdom, follow His Word, and fulfil the responsibilities He has entrusted to you, in the mighty name of Jesus.

3. You will grow in spiritual maturity through every season of testing, and your faith, patience, discernment, and endurance will be strengthened as you depend on God's grace, in the mighty name of Jesus.

4. You will not be ruled by discouragement, fear, or despair; you will receive courage to face your challenges honestly and wisdom to take the right steps towards a faithful and responsible response, in the mighty name of Jesus.

5. You will keep your eyes on Jesus Christ, and the hope of eternal glory will sustain you when earthly circumstances become painful, uncertain, or difficult to understand, in the mighty name of Jesus.

6. You will receive grace to rise again after disappointment, learn from difficult experiences, seek the help you need, and continue walking in obedience to God's Word, in the mighty name of Jesus.

7. Your life will become a source of encouragement to others, and the comfort God gives you will enable you to strengthen those who are weary, burdened, or struggling in their faith, in the mighty name of Jesus.

8. You will remain faithful to your God-given assignment, and even when circumstances require you to change your methods or pace, you will seek God's wisdom and continue serving Him with integrity, in the mighty name of Jesus.

9. You will not allow bitterness, unforgiveness, or resentment to take root in your heart; God will help you respond to adversity with truth, grace, courage, and a Christlike spirit, in the mighty name of Jesus.

10. You will finish your race with faith in Christ, and through His sustaining grace you will remain steadfast, fruitful in good works, and committed to bringing glory to God throughout your life, in the mighty name of Jesus.