"(God) will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away." Revelation 21:4
Troubles can cause us to question God's love for us. Saint Paul tells us in Romans that we can rejoice in our suffering because, being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.
Sufferings can fit into the context of the primary goal God has for us -- that we spend eternity with Him. If we will let them, our troubles can be helpful to us. Saint Paul says: "Suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope" (Romans 5:3-4).
Trouble can teach us perseverance. We learn not to give up. This develops strength of character. And character produces hope. Biblical hope is the unshakable confidence in Christ that comes from having survived many troubles. And such hope, the apostle says, "does not disappoint us" (Romans 5:5). Why not? Because we shall see our God face to face in His kingdom, where He will "wipe every tear from our eyes." Gone are death, mourning, crying, and pain. It is good to remember this when trouble comes.
PRAYER: Father, comfort me in my time of trouble and teach me the lessons You want me to learn. For Jesus' sake I pray. Amen.
(Taken from "Words of Promise, copyright 1996 (out of print), Concordia Publishing House. For information on other devotional materials, call 1-800-325-3040.)
Today's Bible Readings: 1 Chronicles 7-9 1 Corinthians 7:20-40
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