Friday Thought -- November 11, 2011

Good Morning Friends,

“So when we could stand it no longer, we thought it best to be left by ourselves in Athens.  We sent Timothy, who is our brother and God’s fellow worker in spreading the gospel of Christ, to strengthen and encourage you in your faith, so that no one would be unsettled by these trials.  You know quite well that we were destined for them.  In fact, when we were with you, we kept telling you that we would be persecuted.  And it turned out that way, as you well know.  For this reason, when I could stand it no longer, I sent to find out about your faith.  I was afraid that in some way the tempter might have tempted you and our efforts might have been useless.” (1 Thessalonians 3:1-5)

It would be great if all we had to experience in life were pleasures and blessings.  However, that’s not what we’ve been promised.  As Paul reminded the Thessalonians, “we were destined for (trials).”  Jesus’ teachings contain the same promise, “In this world you will have trouble.” (John 16:33)  Trouble and trials are certain for those who follow Christ.  Part of those trials come as a natural part of life -- the whole world groans and struggles because of the effects of sin.  Part of those trials come as a result of walking with Christ.  The world hated Him, and there will always be those who hate His followers, too.

Knowing troubles are to be expected should help us avoid being unsettled by them.  That doesn’t take away the pain and difficulty, but it should help us remain faithful through them and not give in to the temptation from Satan to abandon Christ.

Jesus did promise that we would have trouble, but He concluded that verse with an additional promise:  “But take heart!  I have overcome the world.”  In the midst of the troubles you face, don’t focus on the troubles.  Focus on the One who has overcome those troubles -- and the whole world -- and is waiting to usher you into an eternity without troubles.

And remember, “Who shall separate us from the love of Christ?  Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword?” (Romans 8:35)  Troubles aren’t evidence that God has turned His back on you and forsaken His love.  He’ll hold on to you through your troubles, so keep holding on to Him!

His, by Grace,

Steve