Don’t Be Surprised

We are hard-pressed on every side.

2 Corinthians 4:8

I don’t know why this is happening,” Jill cried. “Just a month ago I turned my life over to Christ. Now my car has died, my child has mononucleosis, and my promotion at work fell through.”

While it seems logical that God would shield us from all pain, that isn’t the way He worked in the Bible. Study the great biblical heroes—Abraham, Joseph, Moses, David, Peter, Paul—and trace their trials and tribulations. Despite what certain false teachers say, the Christian life is not unbridled health and wealth. Jesus put it bluntly when He said, “In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).

In other words, we shouldn’t be surprised when, in seeking to do God’s will, we find ourselves in painful, frightening, difficult, or impossible situations. God hasn’t promised us exemption from the trial but grace in the trial. He has promised never to leave us nor forsake us, and to work all things together for our good. Peter said, “Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial . . . as though some strange thing happened to you; but rejoice . . . be glad with exceeding joy” (1 Peter 4:12–13).

The Lord will see you through.