Or is it “Problems, Problems, and More Problems!”? At first glance, one might think that the problems side of the proposition wins out, 3-2. However, I would suggest, since the promises come from our Creator, Redeemer, and Comforter – the One True God – they easily trump the problems, if we will only let them.
Jesus puts it this way: “I have said these things to you (promises), that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” (John 16.33) And then, immediately after speaking these words of encouragement (promise), we hear Jesus pray what is known as his High Priestly Prayer, which concludes with Jesus praying, “I do not ask for these only, but also for those who will believe in me through their word, that they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me.” (John 17.20-21)
Our natural inclinations are many and generally unhealthy. For example, since the problems are right under our noses, we tend to focus on them. It takes some intentional effort to focus on the promises. We then attach blame to the problem, even though blame seldom does any good. And who of us has not ignored Jesus when he says, “Do not be anxious about your life … (for) which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life?” (Luke 12.22, 25)
So allow me today to simply place before you these “alien” thoughts (promises) from our Creator, Redeemer, and Sanctifier:
- Cast all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you. (1 Peter 5.7)
- Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. (Proverbs 3.5-6)
- I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and whoever lives and believes in me shall never die.” (John 11.25-26)
- God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. (Psalm 46.1)
And in closing, let me simply say, “Blessed be the God and father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.” (2 Corinthians 1.3-4)
Yes, it’s “Promises, Promises and more Promises” that carry us through every day (and every problem).