Facing Challenges

In all honesty, I used to possess a mostly romantic view of life, expecting that everything should simply fall into place and come with ease. The problem with thinking like this is adversity takes us by surprise, leaving us not only unprepared for the challenges we face but more often than not, straight up discouraged.

Jesus offered a provision for the problems we face. He said in John 16:33, “In the world you will have tribulation (you will have hardship, difficulty, trials, overwhelming odds), but be of good cheer I’ve overcome the world.” (conquered). Parenthesis are mine.

I’d like to suggest two take-aways from these words:

1. We can EXPECT ADVERSITY. I know this doesn’t sound encouraging but it actually puts us in the right mindset to remain encouraged and not crumble over difficulty. In advance, we can build supports that will strengthen and sustain us so when troubles arise we have what we need to get through them.

2. We are to REMAIN OPTIMISTIC. Remember, we are not alone in the challenges we face. The problem in front of us is never bigger than the God who lives within us! Psalm 16:8-9 says, “I have set the Lord always before me; Because He is at my right hand I shall not be moved. Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoices; My flesh also will rest in hope.”

#optimistic #challenges #encouragement #expectations #overcomer