We Are Not Distressed

We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed ... (2 Corinthians 4:8)

Sport metaphors are used to describe various events in life. Use of the term “knocked it out of the park” refers to something having been done extremely well. “In the ninth inning” indicates that time is running out. “Down for the count” suggests a reaching of one’s limits or an inability to continue. “Y.A.C. – yards after contact” demonstrates an ability to produce after being hit hard by something or someone. “Two strikes against you” denotes the entering of a danger zone in which one more error will leave you without options. Sadly, sports notwithstanding, this particular terminology is often used in the penal system with reference to African American men who are repeat offenders. And yes, I digress but, I must pause here to say that many of our convicted brothers are in need of greater assistance not greater legal restrictions. Then lastly (returning to our sports metaphors) “ran the distance” implies a show of endurance through difficulties and transitions. These are but a few of the sports metaphors we so love to use. I’m sure you can name a few more.

Similarly, the apostle often used sports imagery to make a point and/or drive home an idea. In this particular verse, 2 Corinthians 4:8, Paul used sporting terminology common to his era to portray the Christian struggle.  "The word rendered troubled" (thlibomenoi) was a wrestling concept used in the ancient Grecian games. It implied that a wrestling opponent or antagonist had crowded his competitor such that he could successfully grip, throw down and pin him.  To “trouble” was to constrain, to hem in or to restrict movement. In other words it meant to stop progress and victory or to compress physically and oppress emotionally. Hence the reference to being “troubled” on every side: front, rear, and side- to-side.

Life can sometimes feel like a wrestling match. Stuff, situations and stressors can hem you in and make you feel like your progression is restricted. Even now many Christians (too many of us) are experiencing the harsh reality of being troubled on every side. Family issues, financial trouble, fatigue, fractured dreams and failing faith make us feel like life has gripped us and pinned us to the mat. We can hear the proverbial countdown as we are being counted out of the game. Recovery seems impossible and victory unattainable.

Please notice the very specific language of the apostle. He didn't say trouble might happen. He very matter-of-factly stated that trouble is on every side. He wanted it to be obvious and clear that trouble does occur in the life of the believer. Even Jesus said "you will have suffering in this world"(John16:33). "Many are the afflictions of the righteous (Psalms 34:19). This troubled, by the way, is not a consequence of doing or being wrong. It is the trouble that comes with life as in the "man/woman who is born of woman is of few days and full of trouble (Job 14:1).

Now, here is the word of faith. Paul wrote contrasting metaphors to demonstrate the human struggle on the one side and Godly strength on the other side. The apostle said although there is trouble on every side and the wrestler has us confined, we are not distressed. We are confined to the degree that we cannot turn or move about, but we are not put in a strait. In keeping with the sports metaphor, we have another turn. Consider for instance that in baseball there are nine innings and each batter has an average of three to four at bats. So, the batter who strikes out the first time has yet another turn. Paul was plainly saying that in Jesus the Christian has another turn. The believer is not an easy out! The enemy can countdown, but the follower of Christ cannot be counted out of the game of life. As servants of God we are more than conquers and we are triumphant in all things (see Romans 8 and 2 Corinthians 2).

Life may try to wrestle you and pin you, but you are not distressed-YOU GOT ANOTHER TURN.

Prayer Lord we know that in you all things work together for our good because we love you and are called according to your purpose (Romans8:28), in Jesus’ name. Amen.

God's Peace and Good Journey!
+t. anthony bronner