Good Morning Friends,
“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, 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. When we were with you, we kept
telling you that we would be persecuted. 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. That’s not what we’ve been promised. Paul
reminded the Thessalonians, “we were destined for (trials).” Jesus made the
same promise, “In this world you will have trouble.” (John 16:33) Trouble and
trials are certain for those who follow Christ. Some trials come as a natural
part of life -- the whole world groans and struggles because of the effects of
sin. Some 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 difficulty, but it
should help us remain faithful through them and not give in to the temptation to
abandon Christ.
Jesus promised that we would have trouble, but
He concluded that verse with another promise: “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 is waiting to usher you into an
eternity without troubles.
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) God will hold on to you through your troubles, so keep
holding on to Him!
His, by Grace, Steve
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