How did Paul endure the trials and tribulations of his physical life?
Paul endured the trials and tribulations of his physical life through the resurrection power of Christ. Knowing the crucified Christ had been raised from the dead, he understood that men could take his life but could not end his spirit life. That same resurrection power kept him through physical hardships, while the prayers of the saints sustained his ministry.
Les explains that after Christ’s arrest and crucifixion, the eleven scattered like quail, running for their lives. After the resurrection their attitude totally changed, because they understood nothing could touch their eternal part; if the Lord had been resurrected, they would be too. Paul had that same mindset: the crucified Christ had been raised, so men could take his life, but they could not end his spirit life. Les says this is what Paul constantly refers to—that even the resurrection power of Christ would keep him through the trials and tribulations of his physical life. Paul was also sustained in ministry by the prayers of the saints, and he asked others to pray, stressing that prayer changes things.