Jesus said in John 16:33, "In this godless world you will continue to experience difficulties. But take heart! I've conquered the world!" (The Message).
What Kind of Life do I expect? Well, I'll tell you what I expected in the past, anyway. I expected to have all of my dreams fulfilled...great marriage, nice home, wonderful children, enough money to pay my bills, etc. But, what did I get? A life of singleness, living in rental properties, no children and presently struggle to pay my bills. What else did I get? A brother fighting with all his might to beat cancer for a little while longer. I have struggled with not getting what I expected. Did I do something wrong? Was I unattractive? Was I too this, that, or the other?
I believe the real answer lies in Jesus' words...we WILL have difficulties. It's not whether we will or won't have them, but just a matter of when. I should EXPECT difficulties. The fiery trials should not surprise me at all. I should not be surprised that all my dreams did not come true. I should not be surprised that my brother has cancer. I should not be surprised that suffering abounds in many places.
We live in a sin cursed world which waits for its' deliverance. We were not made for a sinful, messed up world. We groan for the perfection for which we were created. I should expect troubles. I should also remember that Jesus has already conquered them all on the cross! In all of these things, Jesus has promised to be with the one who has trusted in Him. I should take heart!
