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
Most of us would prefer to only hear or read stories with happy endings, stories that warm our spirits and leave us believing that there is good present in the hearts of men. But we know better. We know that life can get hard for us – for some more than others.
Despite the current prosperity gospel movement here in America that believes God is just waiting to shower you with financial blessing and material wealth, the Bible tells us otherwise. Still, it is rather hard to “need” God when you live in arguably the richest and most blessed nation that has ever existed. Even the “lower class” in our country has access to amenities that the poor overseas cannot fathom.
Yet, while significant prosperity may happen for some of us, the Lord warns us that we will face trouble. After all, we can be wealthy and still face major trials and persecution. How we deal with these troubles and hardships is the key. God can do some amazing things in the midst of struggle. Personally, I have found that I grow the most spiritually when I’m in the midst of some level of hardship. Maybe this is because that’s when I rely on God the most. Far too often though, I fruitlessly toil in my own efforts first.
Still, I think most of us would prefer to avoid troubles if given the choice. There is, in fact, a way that can increase your chances of avoiding hardship and persecution – don’t join the spiritual battle. Don’t go on the offensive for God in this dark and fallen world. Instead, join the rat race of gaining worldly possessions. Or just sit back and relax. You’re no threat to Satan when you’re not living, ministering, or giving in a sacrificial manner. But what will you have to show for yourself in heaven when you stand before the throne of God and give an account of your life?
It helps to go ahead and accept this fact if you’re a follower of Christ. In this life, you will have trouble, especially if you’re serving God with all your heart, mind, soul, and strength. You can count on it to happen as surely as the sun rises.
Paul declared, “For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain” (Philippians 1:21). Let’s live for Christ, for He is worth the hardship. Let’s die for Christ, for we know that when we die, we will gain a sinless eternity and perfect fellowship with Him.
