“Strengthening the souls of the disciples, encouraging them to continue in the faith, and saying that through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God.” – Acts 14:22
We don’t get into God’s Kingdom because of tribulations. We don’t have to earn our way into the Kingdom through hardship. Thankfully, Jesus earned our way for us on the cross. However, as Paul taught the early Christians, we should expect plenty of tribulations on our journey through life as citizens of Heaven.
Tribulations are a normal and expected part of Christian life. Anyone telling you otherwise is lying! The joys of life in Christ don’t include all our problems magically disappearing. Rather, the joys include the glorious truth that God is always present with us in our tribulations. The joys include the assurance that our Savior Jesus, Who personally experienced terrible suffering and unimaginable temptation, lives in us and walks with us through our own seasons of hardship.
Think about that – your suffering Savior is always with you in tribulation. Because you are in Him and He is in you, Jesus suffers with you. He understands your thoughts and feelings better than you do yourself. He understands completely and He’s with you. His Spirit strengthens and renews you for the tribulation. He gives grace sufficient for each day. So continue in the faith throughout hard times. Continue in the knowledge that God is with, Christ is in you, and the Holy Spirit sustains and comforts you.
Christian, don’t be surprised when you find yourself in tribulation. Be prepared and be faithful. The road is hard but the destination is glorious!