All too often in these days of "easy believing" and the false "peace and prosperity" teaching, we hear someone say, "Once you become a Christian, all your difficulties and troubles will be behind you." It is doubtful that anyone really believes such a statement, much less experiences it. As we look in scripture even the Israelites who had been miraculously delivered by God from bondage didn't experience peace or prosperity.
Of course, this concept is not even Biblical. In fact, the Bible teaches quite the opposite. Christ promised, "and you will be hated by all for my name's sake. But he who endures to the end will be saved." (RSV) (Matthew 10:22).
Jesus, Himself, would have many problems in His own life. He was not the most popular person and He makes it clear when He tells us, "If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you" (RSV)(John 15:18). Later, after experiencing many problems in his own life, John wrote, "Marvel not, my brethren, if the world hate you" (I John 3:13).
These problems which we all experience take the form of general troubles which come from living in this sinful, cursed world. There are also specific afflictions and trials, which God allows in your life and mine to bring about His purpose or discipline, as well as direct persecution from members of society and even our own family. Do not be surprised when this takes place
While troubles will come, we should not give up, but be glad that God sees us as strong enough to carry the weight and He also trusts us to accomplish the task He has in mind. Christ promised, "These things I have spoken unto you, that in me you might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world" (John16:33). Through Him we have the strength to meet every difficulty of this life with peace, a good attitude, and victory. Through Him we also receive the promise that throughout eternity "there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be anymore pain: for the
former things are passed away"(Revelation 21:4).
I do hope this devotion encourages each of you to continue on, even when it gets tough. May God be praised and go to the Church of His Choice.
God bless until our next time.
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