Expecting Suffering But Relying on 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)
One thing I have found with facing daily chronic challenges is that it is so easy for me to focus on myself and so difficult to find that “peace.” I have almost continual reminders of “me”. My challenges are daily, almost minute-by-minute reminders that I am not the person I was. For me to be ok, I must look beyond those challenges.

What seems to cause the most pain is my own expectation that there should be no pain or suffering – that life should be simple and easy. And yet, even Scripture tells us that is not so. What I am finding is that if I am not taken aback by my new challenges, if I don’t view them as something that “shouldn’t” happen, they are easier to deal with. So James knew exactly what he was saying when he wrote “Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you.” (James 4:12)

I am learning we must realize that bad things can and will happen. At the same time, we must realize that we have the opportunity to rise about these things and not focus on them or ourselves, but to focus on our God who is the author and perfector of our faith – the one we can run to in each and every situation, the one who will hear our cries, the one who has already overcome the world.

Father God. We live in a difficult and sometimes scary world. We may not understand what is happening to us and to those around us. Yet, I thank you, that in all of these times, you are there, feeling our pain, knowing our hearts, and loving us through each and every trial that comes our way. Help us to keep our eyes on You. Amen.

About the Author:
Deni believes that the only true way to deal with chronic pain and chronic illness is to bring them to the feet of her Lord and Savior. Her multiple illnesses (Celiac Sprue, Atrial Fibrillation, Ankylosing Spondylitis, to name a few) have taught her many things about herself and her Christian walk. It is her fondest prayer that some of her lessons might be helpful to others as they walk the path of chronic illness. deni can be reached at EncouragingWords@me.com. Her website is http://www.pathwaysforchange.com/Encouragement.