What Is Your Trouble?

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Jesus left us many promises. I'm wondering if you've ever claimed this one: "In this world you will have trouble." He said we will, not we might, but we will. Then why are we so surprised? Why do we go into hiding or throw a tantrum when trouble comes. It's  not like we weren't warned.

 

Here's my definition of trouble. 

 

Trouble - n. a state or condition of distress, annoyance, malfunction, or difficulty

 

Let's break it down:

• Distress – trouble affecting your mind, thoughts, dreams
• Annoyance – trouble affecting your attitude, demeanor,
• Malfunction – trouble affecting your body, health, activities
• Difficulty – trouble affecting your future, direction, purpose

Which of these is most troubling to you right now? How are you handling it? When Jesus promised us trouble, it wasn't an isolated statement. It was wedged in between two messages of hope.

“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

He has told us what things? He said many things, but let's look at just three. First, in verse 7, He promised that we wouldn't be left alone or confused in our trouble. The counselor has come to us. Then, in verse 27, Jesus came to give us access to the Father’s love. And lastly, in verses 21-22, our trouble will be followed by a secure joy. No one will be able to wipe the smile from our face or rain on our parade. Joy born out of pain is real joy!

What does all this mean?

Before trouble arrives, we can be prepared through the wisdom God provides,
   in the midst of trouble, we can trust the Father's love,
      and when trouble is past, we will be left standing in unshakeable joy.

When troubles are troublesome, God is awsome.