I’m often struck that when Paul and Silas are beaten with many blows and thrown in prison that they sing hymns to God. How can they sing when they have been through so much, especially since it’s because they are followers of Jesus that they have faced such suffering? How can they view their present troubles as light and momentary?
We’re not told the exact reason, but I wonder if it had something to do with people in Philippi coming to know Jesus through their ministry? A lady called Lydia and her household have just come to faith and a slave girl has just been delivered. Perhaps Paul and Silas are rejoicing that God is at work among the mess. Knowing that the Lord is still saving those who belong to him.
I imagine that they are also praising the Lord that He is sovereign and not troubled by some people shaking their fists at him and hurting his people (Psalm 2 is where the apostles turned earlier when facing persecution-see Acts 4:25).
As they remember that the Lord is in control and has eternal glory for them, and remember Jesus’ words that they are blessed when persecuted (Matthew 5:10-12) they can rejoice.
And wonderfully as they sing to God, others are listening in, and God is about to save a Philippians jailer through their suffering and witness.
Like us, I’m sure Paul and Silas would not chose persecution, but when it comes, they rejoice because they know their troubles are light and momentary and the Lord is working His purposes out.
What troubles are you facing at the moment? If you’re able, try praying (or singing) Psalm 2, remember in the midst of it, the Lord has set His king and is working His purposes out.
Light and Momentary Troubles 
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