Are you under any stress right now? Are you going through a difficult time? So many times when trouble comes our way, we get frustrated with God. We feel like we’re doing the best we can to live life according to His Word and we still come up against difficulties. Why can’t it just be easy?
Well, easy is usually boring and if there is one thing God isn’t that would be boring. I cannot imagine a more adventurous, action packed, energetic life than a life lived with Jesus. If we are students of His Word, we shouldn’t be surprised when trouble comes knocking at our door. He told us it would happen. We just like to forget that part of the story and hope it won’t pan out.
In John 16:33 Jesus clearly states “In this world you will have trouble.” Now I don’t know how clearer He could be. The Message tones it down a little and says “In this godless world you will continue to experience difficulties.” I’d categorize things I’ve gone through more as trouble than simply difficult. The King James Version really paints a clear picture when it says “In the world ye shall have tribulation.” Tribulation is defined as “grievous trouble; severe trial or suffering.” Have you experienced it? I’m sure we’ve all walked through a season of life we’d call a severe trial before.
So, why does God allow His children to go through times like these? Simple…He loves us. James 1:2-4 says “Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” Jesus wants us to lack nothing, therefore, He allows us to go through situations that will make us complete.
Now before you think, “Oh, that’s easy for Him to say, because He’s kicked back in heaven avoiding the mess” remember His promise to us in Psalm 23:4 “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.” He is with us no matter what we’re going through. This is good news, friends, because the rest of John 16:33 says “I have overcome the world.” The Message uses the word “conquered” instead of overcome. It is the Greek word “nikao” and it means “to conquer, to carry off the victory, come off victorious.
I can walk through just about anything as long as I know I’ll be victorious in the end. I’m too competitive to throw in the towel and quit, especially when I am guaranteed a win as long as I stay in the fight. With Jesus there is always victory!
Whatever you’re walking through today, hang tough. You’re not walking through it alone and you are guaranteed victory. Cling to your partner. He can take it. He’s a winner, every time!