When trouble comes our way

John 16:33  " 'I have told you these things so that you may have peace.  In this world you will have trouble, but take heart!  I have overcome the world.' "

Why are we surprised and caught off-guard when trouble comes our way?  We question God in these times, wondering why He is allowing these things to occur.  Don't we believe that if we do our part by being a good person, that God should do His part by protecting us from trouble?

Jesus can't say it any more plainly than He does in this verse- "in this world you will have trouble."  And consider to whom He is making this statement- His disciples.  He's not saying this to unbelievers or to those who are persecuting Him.  He's saying this to His inner circle.  You'd think if anyone was going to be protected from trouble, it would be these guys.

So there we have it.  We can no longer be caught off-guard by trouble in our lives.  If you are not currently experiencing some level of trouble, praise God and look for the lessons He is trying to teach you in this time of peace.  But know that trouble is likely to come (again). 

It's the next part of the verse that is most important- "I have overcome the world."  No trouble we experience here on earth is permanent.  We know that through faith in Jesus, we ultimately win.  And as He says, this should bring us peace in the face of trouble.