J.A. Matteson
As a saint it is vital that you settle in your mind God's love toward you. Otherwise when trouble comes you will sin through the disobedience of doubt. "'The LORD is my portion,' says my soul, 'therefore I have hope in Him'"(Jer. 3:24). The Lord Jesus Christ promised that in this world you will have trouble, so why are you repeatedly surprised when it knocks on your door? Forget the notion that life is predictable or that you are able to direct outcomes and circumstances. Beware of the exasperation that mutters, "What do you want from me?" This is the will of God for you, your sanctification (1 Thess. 4:3). Trouble comes at times because of our sin, at other times due to the sin of those around us, and in other occasions not due to sin but in connection to God's refining purposes of good. As a saint you are the LORD's and He is yours, your inheritance as a child of God. When trouble comes look to Him as your hope, rejecting the wisdom of the world to look elsewhere. All who place their trust in Him will never be disappointed. He is the pearl of great price and He has given you the most precious gift there is, Himself.
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