John 16;33 ''I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
''Christians are not promised an easy life--far from it. The Bible specifically warns that Christ-followers will experience suffering. Our consolation comes in the knowledge that the battle against sin has already been won, and that Jesus will return one day.'' [biblegateway.com]
We all have our low points and days of despair. Are we ever satisfied? I doubt it because we are all subject to trouble from this world. The verse above says 'But take heart', which means don't give up or lose hope because 'He has overcome the world.' When we expect perfection in this life, then we can also expect disappointment.
'Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.' Philippians 4:6-7
I have found that lowering my expectations of myself and others has helped me to be more at peace. We all struggle with something and others may or may not understand. So when the only One who understands all our trials tells us 'I have overcome the world' then we should find contentment, patience, and perseverance in that promise.
May your circumstances never define you, but remind you to be of good cheer with a God-like perspective...even on cloudy and lonely days.
