Through Many Tribulations

Life is not easy! I know that is an understatement. However, many people just expect for life to be easy, and when it is not easy, they get upset. This is especially true for Christians. Somehow there is a misconception that once we come to know Jesus that He is going to take away all of our troubles. Nothing could be farther from the truth.

Paul was faithful to travel around the world telling people about Jesus. Once they were saved he taught them what they needed to know. (Acts 14:22) He was strengthening the souls of the disciples, encouraging them to continue in the faith, and telling them that it is through many tribulations that we must enter the kingdom of God. Let's take a look at what Paul was saying to us.

Why do we need to grow as believers? We need the strength of the Lord to live the Christians life. We can't do it ourselves. Also, we need the power of God to overcome all of the adversities we will encounter from the world around us, the flesh, and the devil. Satan will make sure and put as many tribulations in our way as possible. By God's power, we can handle them for the glory of God.

The many tribulations are not bad for us. They get us to rely on God more. They help us learn patience, and our patience leads us to be mature in our Christian life. Therefore, God allows the tribulations, and He even causes some of them to help us out. The goal is for us to be like Jesus, not to be free from problems. 

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Tomorrow, I intend to read Acts 15-17.