So we are always of good courage. We know that while we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord, for we walk by faith, not by sight. Yes, we are of good courage, and we would rather be away from the body and at home with the Lord. So whether we are at home or away, we make it our aim to please him.

2 Corinthians 5:6-9

The Apostle Paul exhorts the Corinthians to be always of good courage even though physically they may feel weak and drained. The Greek word for "courage" is tharrhountes which means "to be bold and confident". Put simply, to take courage literally means to cheer up and not be afraid no matter how bad it seems.

You can take courage because you are not facing life's challenges alone. God is right here with you. And He will help you through the hard times and bring you out on the other side stronger and more resilient than before. This is why Paul says you are to walk by faith, not by sight.

Walking by faith doesn't mean you are looking for a bailout from God every time when things get tough. When you reduce faith to just getting a rescue, then you will be disappointed if you feel God doesn't seem to care enough to show up and save you. Rather, to walk by faith means to trust God, knowing that He is always just and faithful and reliable regardless of what you are facing right now. Paul knows what he is talking about—after all, he remained courageous and obedient, especially in the face of adverse opposition and suffering.

Paul learns to turn every threat and obstacle into an opportunity to please God. He ministers in every situation, in spite of the hurdles. He writes letters during his imprisonment to encourage the saints and strengthen their faith. He preaches the gospel to an angry crowd and continues with his mission work after he was stoned and left for dead.

Don't see pain and suffering as God's judgement against you.

Your troubles and sorrows are neither inevitable nor permanent. Rather, keep praising God through it all. Just rest assured that our Father sees your end from the beginning and nothing can get in His way of accomplishing all of His beloved desires for you. As such, ask God to help you develop a Christ-like attitude that will give you courage and faith and inspire you to take bold steps ahead.