Undoubtedly, many of our problems would go away if we only had enough faith — and the reason is because then we’d have the courage to follow God’s ways instead of the ways of the world. God’s way is always right, but the ways of the world always lead to turmoil and conflict.

But don’t misunderstand me. God has not promised us a trouble-free life, nor are we to expect it. In fact, Jesus warned us that if we follow Him, we can expect persecution and rejection from an unbelieving world. He declared, “In this world you will have trouble” (John 16:33). He also told His disciples, “‘No servant is greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also” (John 15:20). Yes, Christians get sick; Christians lose their jobs; Christians experience heartache and conflict — just as unbelievers do. But when problems do come, we know we are not alone, for Christ will never leave us. And that’s why we can turn to Him when problems come, and trust Him to do what is right. God can even use problems to draw us closer to Himself, and to make our faith stronger.

Don’t pray for a trouble-free life but for a faithful life — a life that puts Christ first, and follows Him no matter where He leads. Make this your goal — and then take steps to make it a reality by walking with Christ every day through prayer, the Bible and fellowship with other believers.