Living A Real Life Is Not A Problem-Free Life

A perfect life. Does one exist? On this side of eternity, it’s doubtful.

Many of us desire the perfect life. We strive to live one. We work for one, and may of us read books on how to attain one. Some of us believe the perfect life is found in our money, or our looks, or our family or jobs. And, others of us believe the perfect life exists as long as life is problem-free.

Is a problem-free life even possible?

When I don’t have a complete answer about something, I tend to turn to my Bible. I guess that’s just what I’m used to doing after studying its validity and its Source for so many years. So, when I try to answer this question–if life can be problem-free–I think of the answer I’m familiar with in the book of John.

I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have [perfect] peace. In the world you have tribulation and distress and suffering, but be courageous [be confident, be undaunted, be filled with joy]; I have overcome the world.” [My conquest is accomplished, My victory abiding.] John 16:33 AMP

Jesus, Himself, said we’ll have tribulation, distress, and suffering in this world. We will have problems, and boy, it looks like He was right. There’s wars and fighting… happening between countries and in our very own homes. There’s sickness, disease, and heartache… in hospitals and in our own families. Division, hatred, and bullying seem to be everywhere.

Real lives are full of real problems.

When we live a real life, we understand that problems are a part of this life on earth, and because they are, won’t don’t need to hide them. We don’t need to strive for or appear to have a perfect life. A problem-free life, I believe, is a make-believe life. It may exist in our heads, but not in reality.

But, friend, we aren’t left without hope. Let’s not forget the last, maybe most important, truth of the scripture above…”but be courageous; I have overcome the world.” Another translation says, “I have power over the world.” Jesus is more powerful than the problems this world throws at us. So, even though problems are a part of life, we can be at peace knowing He’s on our side.

We can still have peace even if our life isn’t problem-free.

When problems come may we not hide them, but instead, walk through them triumphantly, believing Jesus’ words above. Who knows? The peace we experience in dealing with a problem may just be the encouragement another needs in dealing with his/hers.

Be encouraged, friend, and continue living your real, authentic life. Even when it’s not problem-free.

Much love,

Julie

 

 

Here we are on Day 11 of 31 Days of Living a Real Life. All prior posts can be found here.