One of the possible unpleasant experiences you may have in a road trip is going through a rough road you have not foreseen. Google Maps and Waze after all, do not warn about potholes, and recent bad road conditions.
But unlike these apps, navigating our spiritual journey came already with a warning that trouble is up ahead. That there will be no shortage of challenges, that difficulties are inevitable. It is our Savior, our Lord Jesus Christ, who gave us this heads up, but with His warning came His assurance that He will be with us until the end.
“I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” John 16:33
So what are these troubles that could come ahead once we decide to follow Jesus? First, we would have to carry our cross everyday, and that means we have to let go of our self-centeredness and love God above all. And since God’s love language is obedience, that would mean, we would have to follow His commands, foremost of which is to love and serve others, including our enemies.
“If you love me, you will keep my commandments.” John 14:15
And there’s more. Our old friends whom we bond with over our old, sinful habits, will most likely shun us. Not everyone, including our family and closest circles will be supportive of our decision to follow Jesus. Moreover, our new lifestyle centered on loving God and walking with Him might be ridiculed by those who may not understand.
“Behold, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves.” Matthew 10:16
All these go to show that having a relationship with the Lord does not guarantee answered prayers nor a problem-free life. However, it underscores that when we surrender our life to Christ, and allow Him to take the driver seat, we could survive rough terrains, and safely navigate through the deep potholes of life.
This is because when we surrendered our lives to Jesus, He gave us the Holy Spirit who will help us and guide us through these difficult times. And though it may be hard to understand, those who have truly encountered the Lord will know and experience how God speaks to them through scripture, sermons, godly people, worship songs, discernment during prayer time, and even throughout the day.
“When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come.” John 16:13
When we let God guide our everyday decisions and life choices, we are sure that no matter how rough the road may be, we will not fall flat into our faces because it is the most powerful, all-knowing, and mightiest King who holds our hand and steadies our heart.
“I have set the Lord always before me; because he is at my right hand, I shall not be shaken. Therefore my heart is glad, and my whole being rejoices; my flesh also dwells secure. For you will not abandon my soul to Sheol, or let your holy one see corruption.” Psalm 16:8-10
Thank you for reading through our devotional today. I invite you to ponder on Matthew 10:16-24 to dig deeper on today’s topic.
Reflection Question: How do you feel whenever you encounter difficulties amid your efforts to continue nurturing your faith?
Conversation with the Lord: Lord Jesus Christ, thank you for assuring us that you will never leave us, amid the difficulties we will encounter as we strive to follow you. Grant us the grace to continue looking up to you, as we navigate challenges in our earthly journey. Amen.