The word for this week is "adversity". It's only found once in the New Testament. Hebrews 13:1-3:
1 Let brotherly love continue. 2 Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares. 3 Remember them that are in bonds, as bound with them; and them which suffer adversity, as being yourselves also in the body. KJV
This is the Greek word "kakoucheo". Strong's Concordance says: to maltreat. Thayer's Greek Lexicon says: to ill treat, oppress, plague. Vine's Expository Dictionary says: a compound word from 'kakos' (meaning 'evil') and 'echo' (meaning 'to have'). To suffer ill, to be maltreated, tormented. I was a little surprised by this word when it came to me and I just kept praying to make sure I had it right! When I actually looked the word up, I see that this is referring to others! The instruction here is to 'remember' those who are undergoing adversity. I believe that you and/or your family will have an opportunity to be a real blessing and encouragement very soon to someone who is suffering through adversity! When it says that we are to remember those who suffer adversity, I was reminded of these verses:
Philippians 2:4 Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. KJV
Romans 12:15 Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep. AMP
Everlasting
While earthly ages fade
In mercy
Our God Your kingdom reigns
Lord over everything
You are near
All of the universe at Your feet
In the Saviour
Injustice brought to right
For Your glory
That Your Name be lifted high
The lost are found
The blind will see
The lame will walk
The dead will live
And You our God
Forever You will reign
Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!
