So often the struggles we have in our relationships and circumstances are unexpected and even shocking. The unexpected hurts, disappointment, and loneliness can feel as if they are here to stay. Rest assured, God is not surprised and he knows how to redeem any situation. He promises to bring you through to a better future.
Author, Lysa Terkeurst explains it well in her book, It’s Not Supposed to Be This Way.
“Usually, the most disappointing realities come from the most realistic expectations. An unmet longing from a realistic expectation is such a searing pain within a human heart. You know this whole deal should have and could have been different. But their choices were their own. Their desires, their brokenness, their selfishness, or their lack of awareness left your needs unattended. What seemed so realistic to you was met with a resistance and ultimately rejection by someone you didn’t think would ever hurt you.”
Despite incredible pain and disappointment, we can hope in God and his promises for us. Hope is not denial. Hope is not a delusion. Hope is knowing that God is in control and his Word is unchanging. Hope is knowing that the answers to our prayers are on the way. The waiting for these answers from God requires a fruit of the Spirit that can make us shudder: longsuffering. Longsuffering is developed over time by leaning into faith in God’s care for us and hope in his promises. “And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast” 1 Peter 5:10, NIV.
God gives us amazing encouragement that we can cling to in the middle of the suffering. The hope of eternity is so much more vital and enduring than this present trouble.
Romans 8:18, ESV: “For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us.”
Knowing this hope for eternity with Christ allows us to go to our good Father and share our hope in his love and provision for his daughters in our present circumstances. Asking God to help you realize the abundant life Jesus promises, both now and in eternity, is a request he desires for us to make. God desires to show up and show off his amazing grace and care for his children. Take some time today to declare your trust in God and his love for you!
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