The Message of a Missionary
Troubles, Troubles, Troubles – Part 1

 Scripture Reading: 2 Corinthians 4:13-18

Key Verse: 2 Corinthians 4:17

For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.

The one common element among all mankind is troubles.  Whether you are a Christ follower or the worst sinner in the world, we all have troubles.  We must be extremely careful not to make the message of Christ a ticket for a carefree life; it is not!  Jesus never gave one indication that following Him would eliminate trouble in our lives.  In fact, Jesus confronted the issue clearly: “…in this world you will have trouble.  But take heart, I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).

            The message of a missionary must be consistent with the One who gave us the mission!  That message has always been: We will have troubles, but Jesus in us provides peace in spite of the trouble!  We must be careful in our own lives to never allow the presence of problems to indicate a problem in our relationship with Christ.  It is possible that our troubles are caused by our disobedience, but that is another issue.  If you clearly know you are walking in disobedience, I suggest you read Hebrews 12.  It describes clearly how God disciplines His children.

            However, if there is no obvious disobedience going on in your life, don’t allow the devil to disturb you that troubles in life are a sign of lack of faith.  In fact, we will see in tomorrow’s study that they are a sign of God at work in us.

Father, I will lean heavy on you when faced with life’s troubles.  I know you have overcome this world and its troubles!  In Jesus’ name, amen.