With The Territory!

Life has its mists and sprinkles, but there are also the times that when it rains it pours. There is a country song which states, “I beg your pardon. I didn’t promise you a rose garden. Along with the sunshine there’s got to be a little rain some time.”

The relationships we develop in this life can pose their CHALLENGES. The same is true with our relationship to Jesus. When people are led to believe that once they accept Jesus as Lord all of life will be bliss, they are set up for disappointment when they become faced with CHALLENGES to their faith. Bear in mind that it is not an easy chair, but rather a cross which has become the symbol of Christianity. Jesus was quite honest with His disciples regarding the things they would face. (i.e. John 15:18-20; 16:1-2, & 33) In the relationship with Christ trials come with the territory.

In the midst of such CHALLENGES, the thing we must do is keep the focus on the bigger picture. In spite of Paul’s trials he maintained a proper perspective. Note his attitude as expressed in his letter to the church at Rome.

Paul wrote…
“For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are NOT WORTH COMPARING with the glory that is to be revealed in us.” ( Romans 8:18 ESV)

Yes, there are the CHALLENGES. These CHALLENGES help us grow and mature. ( James 1:2-4) However, there are innumerable blessings too. Jesus does provide for abundant ( John 10:10) living now and there is an “eternal glory” ( 2 Corinthians 4:17) to set our eyes upon. While we persevere in our faith, may we keep in view the blessed and glorious aspects of our relationship to Jesus that far outweigh anything else.

Have a great day ENCOURAGED BY THE GREATER PICTURE!
Carl

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