The Promise in Pain

READ:

In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.
John 16:33

DEVOTIONAL:

If we were honest, most of us would go to great lengths to avoid discomfort in our lives. Whether it's that dreaded conversation we've been postponing, the discomfort of sitting in the middle seat during a long flight, or braving the chaotic stores during the Christmas season, we instinctively steer clear of these experiences. 

Those examples are small, but if given the choice, all of us would avoid these and bigger struggles as well. Struggles like relational or family tensions, financial burdens, or health concerns upend our lives at one point or another. 

The reality is that we as humans have been conditioned to plan our lives around what is most comfortable and what will bring the least amount of pain to us. The truth, however, is we can’t avoid painful things forever. 

God Uses Pain 
But what if I told you that oftentimes, it’s the pain in our lives that God uses to fully reveal His promises for our lives? 

This perspective may challenge your beliefs, but let's explore it for a moment. As followers of Jesus, we sometimes equate being a Christian with leading a perfect life, free from the troubles and tensions that the world faces. However, that is not the promise that Jesus made to us. 

In fact, in John 16:33, Jesus explicitly states the opposite: "In this world you will have trouble..." The word "trouble" here can also be translated as "pressure." Essentially, Jesus is telling us that pressure, in various forms, such as family, finances, and health, will inevitably come our way. 

But the verse does not end there, in fact what Jesus says next is perhaps the most beautiful aspect of our God. He says, “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart, for I have overcome the world.” 

Jesus assures us that even though we will encounter struggles in life, we can find solace because He is with us through it all! No matter what we are going through, Jesus promises His unwavering presence and reminds us to trust in His goodness. 

Shift Your Perspective

Our natural response is to resent the hardships and challenges we face. However, Jesus invites us to shift our perspective, to take heart, and recognize that in the midst of pain, He stands right beside us. It's a beautiful realization that the Creator of the universe sees us and, more importantly, deeply cares about what we are experiencing. 

Today, I want to invite you to remember the promises that God has made and trust Him as you navigate whatever challenges you may be facing. Embrace the growth and transformation that can emerge from these struggles, knowing that God's presence and goodness will carry you through. 

It's in these moments of vulnerability and reliance on God that we can discover the true depth of His promises for our lives. So, let us courageously face life's pain points, for they can lead us to the fulfillment of God's promises!

PRAYER: 

Holy Spirit, help me today to see that what I am facing is not only temporary but fully within Your hands. Give me the strength to take heart and realize that no matter what hardship or trial comes my way, I can fully trust that You are with me and for me. I choose to believe that You are good and that Your promises never fail. In Jesus’ Name, amen.