Salvation and the Rich, Trouble Free Life

How often have you heard, “I’m saved. Why do I have all these troubles in my life?”

That’s a good question isn’t it? Perhaps the answer lies in your understanding of salvation. Some folks would have you to believe that when you are saved you have everything you want at your fingertips, all your challenges will disappear, and your fortune is on the way.

Salvation is the promise of eternal life. God also promises to meet our needs.

But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:19

Salvation does not promise a treasure chest of earthly financial rewards like some folks believe. Your problems are not going to dissolve before your eyes, and those folks that don’t like you are not going to suddenly think you are great.

That’s not salvation.

Not only will you not get all the things you want, you may find yourself giving up many of the things you thought you liked. Instead of serving in ways you hoped to, you may find yourself serving in ways you never thought you would.

Making Jesus Lord of your life is about building a relationship with Him and doing things His way. You step aside, and you let Jesus do the leading.

Will your life be better? Yes. It will be the best that God has for you. Will it be easy? Not necessarily.

Sometimes we need to struggle in order to see God’s love. Sometimes we need to see God move to remind us that He loves us. Sometimes we just need to be still, and let God be God. These are not lessons that are learned by having an easy life.

The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.
Psalms 23:1-6

Psalm 23 is not about a carefree life. It’s about trusting in God to provide. It’s about seeing His hand of protection and care. It’s about leaning on and waiting on God. These are not lessons learned by someone that has everything in life in a materialistic sense. These are, however, lessons learned by someone that has let God have all of them.

LIFE APPLICATION

Today’s challenge is to ask yourself what you thought salvation was all about. Did you think you’d have it easy? Did you think it was the promise of a successful, trouble free life?

Salvation is awesome. God does love you, and He will see you through. If you have a pile of burdens on your plate, give them to God by spending extended time in prayer. Pray until you have peace, and remember to listen for God’s answer.