One of the unfortunate byproducts of living in a sinful, fallen world is that every person, Christian or not, experiences pain and suffering and disappointment in this life. From failed relationships to unfulfilled dreams, life can be filled with sorrow and disappointment.
In fact, Jesus assured us of it: “In this world you will have trouble”. No one is immune.
First, even though we cannot eliminate suffering or disappointment this side of heaven, we must keep uppermost in our mind that no amount of suffering or disappointment we experience in this life can ever undo what God has already done for us in Christ.
There is no psychology or philosophy that can offer a sufficient explanation for how God can resolve our disappointments. No social science can work restoration on the soul; only God can do this. The truth is, our trials and disappointments, though we may not like them, do serve a purpose. It is through trials that we learn patience and humility, endurance and trust—virtues that strengthen us and develop godly character.
Secondly, it is during the difficult times that we learn to rely on God and experience firsthand the absolute trustworthiness of His Word.As A. W. Tozer once observed, “If the truth were known, the saints of God in every age can only become effective after they have been wounded.”
Third, as Christians, it is important that we maintain our perspective on our eternity. Our time on earth is an incalculably small fraction of our eternal journey. We can do this, when we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but rather on what is unseen, our heavenly home!
It is faith that allows us to see the unseen. That’s why faith is such an indispensable element of the Christian life. Scripture teaches that we live by faith and that without faith it is impossible to please God. We know that, as followers of Christ, we will experience disappointment and endure trials where our faith is often put to the test. And the Bible tells us we should “consider it pure joy” when we face these trials, as this is how our faith strengthens and we mature as Christians.
It also helps to remember the absolute sovereignty of God. Everything occurs either by His prescription or permission and in perfect accordance with His sovereign purposes and unfathomable ways. Prayer is the ultimate acknowledgment of God’s sovereignty. In the midst of our trial and disappointments, prayer gives us strength.
And finally, by being a child of God, it that means you are never alone in your disappointments and trials. God gives us the strength and grace we need to endure any circumstance and to overcome any disappointment. God gives us the strength and grace we need to endure any circumstance and to overcome any disappointment.
Philippians 4:6-8 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.
7. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
8. Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.
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