This week's devotion is entitled:
For our present troubles are quite small and won't last very long. Yet they produce for us an immeasurably great glory that will last forever!
~2 Corinthians 4:17
It's no news to anyone that even Christians have troubles in this world. And while we should have the happiest life of anyone on earth, that doesn't mean that bad things don't happen to us, or that we don't find ourselves in unpleasant situations. It's like the saying goes: "Christians aren't perfect, just forgiven."
But we need to face our problems the way Jesus faced His. If we want to become more like Him (and we should), we need to handle things with at least some of the same skill and grace that Jesus did. This is one of those "What Would Jesus Do?" things.
If you have a difficult situation in your life, face it head on. Don't get overly frustrated, just pray about it and ask God what He would have you do in the situation. Think of everything Jesus went through for you and suffered for you, and then compare your problems to that. It's true what Paul says: our problems are small and don't last for long.
But think of the rewards you will receive in heaven for the small sufferings you endure! Jesus is at the right hand of His Father God right now for what He's done. We will inherit all the promises of God. Just read the Beatitudes.
"God blesses those who realize their need for him, for the Kingdom of Heaven is given to them. God blesses those who mourn, for they will be comforted. God blesses those who are gentle and lowly, for the whole earth will belong to them. God blesses those who are hungry and thirsty for justice, for they will receive it in full. God blesses those who are merciful, for they will be shown mercy. God blesses those whose hearts are pure, for they will see God. God blesses those who work for peace, for they will be called the children of God. God blesses those who are persecuted because they live for God, for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs. God blesses you when you are mocked and persecuted and lied about because you are my followers. Be happy about it! Be very glad! For a great reward awaits you in heaven. And remember, the ancient prophets were persecuted, too."
~Matthew 5:3-11