We don't want you to be unaware, brothers and sisters, of our affliction that took place in Asia. We were completely overwhelmed - beyond our strength - so that we even despaired of life itself.

2 Corinthians 1:8 CSB

Ever felt this way?

Great if you haven't, but many people have experienced this, people in your church, workplace, sports team, school, uni, perhaps even in the place that you live.

Afflicted.

Completely overwhelmed.

Beyond our strength.

In despair.

When life seemed too much to bear. 

If you've ever felt like this, then you're in good company right here with Paul. He wasn't ashamed of how he felt, he states it as it was. And in that is a model for us too...there's no shame in feeling this way;

Afflicted.

Completely overwhelmed.

Beyond our strength.

In despair.

When life seemed too much to bear. 

State it how it is to someone you trust, do what Paul did and write it down.

Our culture, often our church culture too, tells us we have to put on a brave face, a veneer that everything is good all the time, and yet here is Paul in the middle of the New Testament saying it exactly how it is for him. 

It's OK not to be OK.

Life, circumstances, can be overwhelming and it's OK to say it.

#corinthians

#itsOKnottobeOK

#youareBelovedeveninthis