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There is an old Christian melody that includes the phrase. “…troubles trouble us all”.

Who among us, if we are striving to live as Christ wants us to live, have not experienced troubles of one kind or another. In a world that steadily grows more dangerous and difficult to live in as Christians, at times troubles in our lives may seem an understatement. Most Christians understood the likelihood, at least to some extent, when they first believed.

Some, when they first believed, have not been heard what to expect in the world they were accustomed to experiencing.

There are at least two kinds of trouble we incur after we believe and attempt to live out our lives for Jesus.

First, those close to us can begin to resent our new attempt to change our lives to be more like Jesus would have us to live, which is diametrically different than those who know us - especially those who are closest to us.

“If you are insulted and reviled for [bearing] the name of Christ, you are blessed [happy, with life-joy and comfort in God’s salvation regardless of your circumstances], because the Spirit of glory and of God is resting on you [and indwelling you—He whom they curse, you glorify“. - 1 Peter 4:14

Secondly, we can experience troubles, and even persecution, because of sins and personal conduct of our own that offends others. Jesus expects us to strive to not conduct ourselves in a way that directly offends those who do not share our beliefs.

Make sure that none of you suffers as a murderer, or a thief, or any sort of criminal [in response to persecution], or as a troublesome meddler interfering in the affairs of others; but if anyone suffers [ill-treatment] as a Christian [because of his belief], he is not to be ashamed, but is to glorify God [because he is considered worthy to suffer] in this name.” - 1 Peter 4:14-16

The Apostle Paul said that he had forsaken everything in his life - even the approval of others close to him.

“But more than that, I count everything as loss compared to the priceless privilege and supreme advantage of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord [and of growing more deeply and thoroughly acquainted with Him—a joy unequaled]. For His sake I have lost everything, and I consider it all garbage, so that I may gain Christ,” - Philippians 3:8

Also, as we grow spiritually and become increasingly spiritual minded, we begin to develope a spiritual joy in our live because we begin to realize that God pruning us, and molding us into Jesus's image unto eternal life.

“Consider it nothing but joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you fall into various trials. Be assured that the testing of your faith [through experience] produces endurance [leading to spiritual maturity, and inner peace]. And let endurance have its perfect result and do a thorough work, so that you may be perfect and completely developed [in your faith], lacking in nothing. …” - James 1:2-8

Yes, God has said that “many are the affliction of the righteous”.

But let us strive to make sure that it is because of our righteousness that causes the majority of our troubles. But regardless of the cause or the direction that our troubles come from, God can see us through, and also assure us of the value of enduring through it all.

Jesus is our Savior and our deliverer in His time - and in His way.

Trust Him!

“The Lord is near to the heartbroken. And He saves those who are crushed in spirit (contrite in heart, truly sorry for their sin). Many hardships and perplexing circumstances confront the righteous,
But the Lord rescues him from them all.” - Psalm 34:18-19 (AMP)

"Chip Shots from the Ruff of Life" from Tom Kelley

The Curse is Gone