THANKFUL

Chatting with Jesus

Thursday, January 12, 2023

Lord, I don’t understand how some Christ followers believe that once we surrendered our life to You we became exempt from the fears, troubles, and sorrows that we had as unbelievers. How many were surprised, then confused, these human events remained? Taught with good intentions, many promoted the misguided theology that for Christ followers, everything is “pie in the sky” and “turning up rosy.” Sadly, when reality sinks in and these “promises” fail to appear, many are disillusioned. Some lose faith.

Nowhere does Scripture indicate You told Your followers they would receive a “Troubles and Sorrows Exemption” card. These are Your words, Jesus:

“Here on Earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.” — John 16:33

The reality is being a Christ follower doesn’t magically erase our genuine concerns or fear about life’s stuff. Lord, You said You would never leave us nor forsake us.

When the doctor says he doesn’t like the looks of the biopsy, You are holding our hand.

When the one we loved most and dedicated our life to slams the door and walks out, You are holding us in Your arms, our broken heart close to Your loving heart.

When our prodigal child rebels and we helplessly watch them destroy their life, we feel Your tears running down our cheek as we cry on Your shoulder yet knowing one day they will return.

When our employer says the company needs to make cuts and security walks us to our car, we may not see now but You are walking with us toward a greater faith and a brighter future.

As the casket is lower into the ground, the anguish in our heart seems unbearable, yet You show in our spirit our loved one, now whole and vibrant, walking with You on streets of gold.

Lord, may we live confidently trusting Your Word, “take heart, because I have overcome the world.”

Amen, Jesus!