Week Four - It Ain't Easy

The pastor was preaching on the troubles of life this past Sunday. No one likes them, but they are a part of life, aren't they? We all wish we could float through life without trouble, but it seems to come from unexpected directions and without much warning. 

A friend posted this a few weeks ago: "There isn't a woman (or man) in the Bible used by God who had it easy. Ruth didn't have it easy. Esther didn't have it easy. Sarah didn't have it easy. Hannah didn't have it easy. Mary didn't have it easy. Y'all better stop falling for that feel-good gospel and recognize that God's daughters (and sons) don't have it easy. They have it anointed. They have it appointed. They have it highly favored. They have victory."

Maybe that's why the Bible says to not think it strange when bad things happen or hard times come. These things have a God-ordained purpose. I love the way the Bible puts it. "Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy" (1 Peter 4:12-13).

When we look at life through rose-colored glasses, we get a distorted view. Even Jesus didn't have it easy. So when we come to a hard time, we don't need to flay about crying and demanding immediate attention. It isn't some strange thing that has happened to us; it is an opportunity to be a "partaker of Christ's sufferings." 

Since every moment is filtered by the hands of a purposeful and loving God, we can rest in His sovereignty and look beyond the present suffering to the glory to come. We can find ways to look for joy and thankfulness in the middle of the trial.

When we entrust ourselves to the Lord, the Holy Spirit has a way of helping us "float" above the suffering and leading us to higher places in Christ and a deeper love and understanding of our Father. He is our comfort and strength in every trial, and He has an amazing way of using them to teach us more of Himself.

So today, if life isn't easy, put away your feel-good expectations and step into what God has appointed for you. He is there. You are not alone. He knows what's happening and will put His loving arms around you and carry you through when it ain't easy.