Can there be Life Without Problems?

As Christians, you should not expect a life without problems. It isn't realistic, and it isn't taught in the Bible. Jesus reminded His followers in John 16:33 about the things He had told them earlier, that in Him, they would have peace. He further mentioned that in the world, there would be tribulation (trouble); but he assured them to be of good cheer because He has overcome the world. This clearly explains why Christians often face ridicule, discrimination, insults and mistreatment. The "trouble" for the Christians can also include accidents, illness, job layoffs, broken relationships, financial setbacks, family strife, the death of a loved one and similar problems that unbelievers suffer as well. We will have to face problems in this life. Christ never promised Christians a life without struggles, pain and hardships. Jesus never told His disciples, "If you follow me your life will go smoothly, and you will get everything you want." He never offered His followers a life without challenges.

However, no matter the cause of our problems - whether ourselves (sin), others (crime, cruelty, selfishness) or circumstances (illness, accidents, loss, disaster), Jesus is always there for us. He is the answer to this problem-filled life. That doesn't mean our problems will end, but that He can bring us through everything that happens to us. Psalms 34:19 says, "Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the LORD delivers him out of them all." He doesn't spare us or shield us from trouble, but He can deliver us. We may come out through the other side with scars and losses, but we have assurance that we will come out through the other end if we obey Him. Even if a Christian's suffering results in death, he/she will be delivered into the hands of God.

If we understand that trouble is normal and to be expected (sometimes even helpful for our spiritual growth), we will be prepared to face the difficulties of this life. James 1:2-4 asks us to count it all joy when we fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of our faith produces patience. It further tells us to allow patience have its perfect work, that we may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing." This means that we don't have to like it and we certainly won't enjoy it, but we can count on God's help to always get us through it, if we stay true to Him. A problem-free life is a myth on earth, but a reality in heaven. God’s word in Revelation 21:4 promises that God will wipe away every tear from our eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away."