A wise mentor once told me, “I count it unusual if, by the end of my day, I haven’t encountered trouble of some kind.”

I remember initially thinking how odd that was. It seemed rather fatalistic to me, actually.

Shouldn’t we, as followers of Christ, expect blessing and favor daily? Aren’t we supposed to embrace each new day with a fullness-of-life mentality and optimism?

The simple answer is yes, but…

We should also anticipate difficulties, hardships, and troubles.

Jesus said as much.

“Don’t worry about tomorrow…each day has enough trouble of its own.” (Matthew 6:34 CSB)

Such is the journey of life in a broken world.

Perhaps, though, you’ve been like me and thought that when “trouble” does strike, it’s because God is angry at you.

It’s a tension I’ve wrestled with over the years and one that I still have to guard against. Trouble in this life is not equal to being in the crosshairs of an angry God.

A flat tire, a broken dishwasher, the loss of a job, or the diagnosis of an illness doesn’t mean God is displeased with us or that we’re beyond the hope of His kindness, grace, and love.

Yet, I’ve talked to enough people over the years to know this is a temptation common to many.

But, here’s the simple truth, and one that my mentor clearly understood: trouble is inevitable in this life – not because we’ve done anything wrong, but just because things break down, stuff needs repaired, people don’t always get along, and our bodies are frail.

But equally true is this – God is ever-present; loves us beyond our comprehension; and always wants to help.

Understanding this helps us run into His arms when difficulties arise rather than hiding from Him in shame or fear.

It also gives us the confidence to stand on the wonderful promise found in Psalm 46:1 because we see more clearly the gracious heart of our Father.

“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” (KJV)

Until next time, Grace and Glory!