I have been having intentional devotions lately. I am ashamed to tell you that is not something I have always done in my life. I feel like God has been revealing and convicting during my recent quiet time. Although not always so quietly, Jesus is speaking to me.
Today God brought to my attention John 16:33
You will have suffering in this world. Be courageous! I have conquered the world.
We grow up having expectations, the house we will live in, the car we will drive, that we will never be sick, or even how perfect our spouse will be. We don't see a point in preparing for disappointment.
Jesus was upfront with his disciples when he told them what to expect in life. If we want to avoid the anger and disappointment that comes with the unrealistic thoughts of our "perfect life" then we must not insist that it be perfect....
We can not base our moods on how things are going. We need to put our confidence in God, who never changes, and choose to be ok with a life that IS GOING to change from moment to moment.
In 1Peter 4:12-13 it says Dear Friends do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed.
