Difficulty Sometimes life is more challenging than it needs to be. Work seems difficult. We get sick. Our children misbehave. There’s not enough money to pay the bills. Everywhere we turn, trouble and disappointment assail us. At such times in my own life, I cling to what has become a favorite proverb: “This too shall pass.” Though not drawn from Scripture, it’s a saying that packs a lot of wisdom, reminding us that life is seasonal. Things will eventually improve. Sometimes, however, more is needed in our response to life’s difficulties. At times we will need to have the courage to ask ourselves an important question, one with searing implications: “Have I brought any of my troubles on myself? Do I bear any responsibility (even slightly) for what I am going through?” Our decisions have real-life implications. If I cut corners at work, I may lose my job. If I eat too much, I will become unhealthy. If I spend too much, I will fall into debt. Sin has real-life implications, too. Tolerating it can lead to all kinds of difficulties. If I’m self-righteous, I will push people away. If I lie to my friend, I may lose her friendship. At first sin can seem like the path of least resistance. But in the end, it’s the hardest path of all, leading to a life bereft of peace and joy. The silver lining in the “sin cloud” is that once we admit our failings to God, we no longer have to live under sin’s power. As we ask God’s forgiveness, we are once again open to receiving the help we need to live a better life.
Posted on: Tue, 08 Oct 2013 05:57:51 +0000
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