When Easy Doesn’t Live Here: Living by Faith When Life Is Hard a 7 - Day Plan By: Joy A. WilliamsSample

DAY 2: THE MESSAGE IN OUR TENSION

When being at ease no longer exists within our hearts or in our homes, tension feels like a constant companion. It followed me for years as my husband, and I dealt with infertility. Years later, it crept in with each challenge of parenting our teenage son.

But tension tells us something should be different. Yet, the process of improving what is failing within us or around us can be complicated or confusing. However, one of the many benefits of following Christ is having His promises and principles to live by in life’s complications. The promise He gives us in John 16:33 feels like a bittersweet guarantee.

“I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.”( John 16:33 NLT)

The bitter part is knowing we will have many trials and sorrows on earth. The sweet part is in having peace in knowing Jesus, the One who has overcome the world. He has the solution, whether it comes as a quick fix, a lengthy process, or a much-needed miracle.

Scripture shows us what happens when we seek aid from something or someone else other than God. As He gave a warning to Israel, “This is what the Sovereign Lord, the Holy One of Israel, says: ‘Only in returning to me and resting in me will you be saved. In quietness and confidence is your strength. But you would have none of it. You said, ‘No, we will get our help from Egypt. They will give us swift horses for riding into battle.’ But the only swiftness you are going to see is the swiftness of your enemies chasing you!” (Isaiah 30:15-16)

The enemies of doubt, fear, and deception chase us in the tensions of life. Once we’re in their grip, life’s difficulties begin to speak louder than our faith. But no matter how high the volume, they can still be quieted by God’s love. (Zephaniah 3:17) May the reality of His love for you ease the tension in your heart today.

PRAYER: Dear God, today I choose to rest in the peace Jesus offers. He has already overcome what overwhelms me. May Your unfailing love quiet the noise of doubt, fear, and deception. Through Christ, I am free from their grip and forever in Yours. In Jesus’ name, amen.