Disappointment, Sorrow...and Something Greater

All of us would rather not experience disappointment and sorrow.  However, these emotions are a part of life.  Someone may say something or do something that is the opposite of what we thought they would say or do and that disappoints us.  A broken relationship or the sickness or loss of a loved one may cause sorrow.  Amid disappointment, sorrow and grief there can be a ray of hope.

In the New Testament, when writing to the people who lived at Corinth, the Apostle Paul said, “I have great confidence in you; I take great pride in you. I am greatly encouraged; in all our troubles my joy knows no bounds” (II Corinthians 7:4).  Notice that Paul was facing many difficulties ("troubles"), and yet, he could experience joy.  In his difficult situations he took the opportunity to do two things:

1. Encourage the people to whom he was writing (“great confidence in” and “take pride in”) and
2. Find abundant joy (“in all our troubles…joy knows no bounds”).  

How could he find great joy through his difficulties?  From the Old Testament, Nehemiah helps answer this question when he said,“Do not grieve, for the joy of the LORD is your strength” (Nehemiah 8:10).  Joy comes from the Lord and it does not depend on being in a good situation.  While you are going through a time of disappointment, sorrow or grief you can have great joy—if you let the Lord provide it for you.  What difficulty is discouraging you today?  Turn to the Lord.  He is ready to help you have abundant joy in spite of your situation.