What Is Challenging About the Pursuit of Happiness?

Trouble is impossible to avoid. Job 5:7 states that “Man is born to trouble as surely as the sparks fly upward.” Troubles may come in the form of temptation or as a test of faith and trust in God to provide what’s needed to face each day’s issues.

Saul knew what God required of him, yet he seemed determined to live according to his own rules rather than what pleased God. On several occasions Saul was tested and invariably failed to do what was required. Perhaps it was impatience that overruled his better judgment.

Trouble can be challenging just to identify its source, but for Saul it was his need for recognition and acceptance that made him weak and vulnerable. When being tested, remember James 1:12: “God will bless you if you don’t give up when your faith is being tested. He will reward you with a blessed life just as he rewards everyone who loves him.” 

This is God’s promise to you.                            

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Commit everything you do to the Lord. Trust in him and he will help you.

~Psalm 37:5 New Living Translation

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Face Your Troubles ~ God Will Help

Trouble followed Jacob like a faithful companion. I'm sure he could identify with Job’s assessment of "man being born for trouble as surely as sparks from fire fly upward." He had just settled in at Shechem when a young man raped his daughter Dinah. Jacob’s sons avenged the rape by murdering the perpetrator and other adult men in the community.

C. S. Lewis noted that "God, who foresees your troubles, intends for you to accept them and the accompanying pain." Understand that pain and suffering are agents for enhancing maturity whereas running away from trouble prevents growth and maturity. Our self-esteem is enriched by facing trouble head on.

          Trouble in this life is predictable, but how we manage it determines the outcome. Trouble overflowed in Jacob’s life because of his choices. Seeking God’s help when facing trouble is a necessity. Faith encourages you to believe God not only listens but answers your prayers. This can be your confidence as you trust in God to help.
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God is our shelter and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble. So we will not be afraid... ~PSALM 46:1-2a  Good News Bible