“ L adies and gentlemen, we’re about to hit some turbulence. You’ll notice that the ‘Fasten Seatbelt’ signs have been illuminated. Please take your seat, fasten your seatbelt, and return your trays to their upright positions.”
If you’ve ever been on a flight, you may have heard the captain make this announcement, to warn you that things are about to get a little bumpy. It’s a wonderful courtesy – being forewarned that your journey won’t be as smooth sailing as you expected it to be.
In a similar way, the Bible warns us that things in life will become difficult. We don’t always know when it will happen, but we are forewarned that as Christians we need to be prepared for suffering.
“In this world you will have trouble,” taught the Lord Jesus. “But take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).
Paul writes in Philippians, “For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for Him” (Philippians 1:29). In 2 Timothy Paul tells us that everyone who wishes to live a life in Christ will be persecuted (2 Timothy 3:12). In this magazine (pp.12 -13) we explore how we can follow the example of Christ when we suffer for our faith in Him.
Throughout these pages you will meet brothers and sisters in Christ who have been through turbulent times and have weathered the storm by that very faith. You have also supported them through their struggles, whether in prayer or through generous giving. Their God-given faith has led them through natural disasters, displacement, violent attacks, hunger or ill health to name just a few of the difficulties they have faced. We hope that their stories encourage you in your faith, and tell of the difference you have made to the lives of believers around the world.
As well as giving us a warning, the Bible gives us an encouragement. We do not face the turbulence of life on our own, but are guided by a skilled pilot – the Lord Himself who has declared, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you” (Hebrews 13:5).
“In this world you will have trouble,” taught the Lord Jesus. “But take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).
