Stepping Stones: Even In Darkness, Light Dawns

Transformational Tip
How many of us deep down believe we deserve a trouble-free life? And even if we don't feel we deserve, we certainly desire that problem-free life. What do we really deserve? The wages of sin is death. From the first sin of Eve and Adam, with the consequences of separation from God, shame, pain in childbirth (and childrearing) and toiling in the field, to the consequences of our own sin, we deserve death. Everything we get....breathing, walking, thinking, house, family, heat, food....is all way more than we deserve and is total grace from God. Amazing how we get so entitled and believe we deserve all we get.... actually deserve even more. Instead of being happy about the 8 years we had with our son, we ruminate and believe we were entitled to more time with him when he dies. Just because we had something (good things or the lack of bad things) yesterday, we feel entitled to have it again today. Jesus tells us clearly in John 16:33 that we will have trouble in this world, and that we will only find peace in Him. No pain, no gain.
So let go of the illusion of the trouble-free life and begin turning your focus toward your Lord during the dark times; for "Even in darkness light dawns..." and show God you trust His prescription and provision for your life more than your own plan.

Prayer
Dear Father,
Please help me give up the belief that I deserve a problem-free life. I remain constantly hungry for the solutions for all difficulties in my life. I know now that this is false hope, for You tell me through Your word that in this world I will have trouble. Instead of me seeking perfection in this fallen world, help me focus my energy on seeking You...the only perfect One.
I know and believe that it is possible to enjoy You and glorify You in the midst of adverse situations and circumstances. In fact, You have taught me that Your light shines most brightly through believers who trust You while they are in the dark. I thank You Lord for the Christians you have placed in my life, The kind of trust I see them having in You is clearly supernatural...only possible by Your Spirit living within them. It's so beautiful and encouraging to see their hearts so steadfast, trusting in You Lord.
I pray in Jesus' name - Amen

The Truth
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.
John 16:33
For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 6:23
Even in darkness light dawns for the upright, for the gracious and compassionate and righteous man.
He will have no fear of bad news; his heart is steadfast, trusting in the LORD.
Psalm 112:4 and 7