Your expectations are a signal of your soul’s health. So, how do you picture your future? Maturing in faith means subordinating our expectations to the Bible’s outlook. And Scripture prompts us to expect to face trials and troubles this side of heaven:
- “In the world you will have tribulation,” Jesus says. And yet he goes on: “But take heart; I have overcome the world” (John 16:33). Afflictions do come—but they don’t get the last word.
- Jesus’ life is a trial-laden journey leading to the cross, “The Son of Man must suffer many things and be rejected by the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and on the third day be raised” (Luke 9:22).
- And this is not only Jesus’ path but our pattern: “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me” (9:23; cf. Romans 8:29).
- Afflictions come with the territory: “Do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you” (1 Peter 4:12).
- In fact, under the ever-wise providence of God, suffering is “granted” to believers: “For it has been granted to you that for the sake of Christ you should not only believe in him but also suffer for his sake” (Philippians 1:29; cf. 2 Cor 12:7-10).
- Our trials come to us within the will of God: “Therefore let those who suffer according to God’s will entrust their souls to a faithful Creator while doing good” (1 Peter 4:19).
God tells us, “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness” (James 1:2-3). Yes, joy: “You joyfully accepted the plundering of your property, since you knew that you yourselves had a better possession and an abiding one” (Hebrews 10:34). Are your expectations like that? I hope you expect, most of all, that, despite all the storms of life, the Good Shepherd holds you securely (John 10:28), come what may!
