For many years I viewed tribulation and trouble in my life as something that was to be circumvented. I thought that if I lived my life in harmony with Jesus, I would prosper materially and I would have enough money to take care of any hardship that came my way. I believed that if I made the right investments, I could be assured that I would live comfortably in retirement. Now I realize that adversity, difficulty and all other forms of conflict are means He uses to break my dependence on the things of the world. No matter what kind of circumstances surround me, my primary objective and purpose in this life is to progressively know the Lord more intimately and simply be a fruit bearing branch of the true vine. I am amazed at how uncomplicated things are when I embrace every situation as a motivation to look unto Him and witness His awesome presence. Every moment in fellowship with Him enables me to experience His righteousness, peace and joy.
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
John 16:33
“They preached the good news in that city and won a large number of disciples. Then they returned to Lystra, Iconium and Antioch, strengthening the disciples and encouraging them to remain true to the faith. ‘We must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God,’ they said.”
Acts 14:21-22