Expect difficulties

Acts 14:22b “…We must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God.” Human logic would conclude that as faithful believing followers of our Almighty God who has ultimate power over all existence, we would live the ultimate relaxed and successfully healthy lives possible on this earth.  Our loving God says–no, you will suffer many hardships on this earth both for Me and because of Me.  Why would God determine we live that life?  Multiple reasons—so we develop a strong faith–so we have opportunity to show our love for Him–so He can show His love for us by guiding us through hardship–to help us develop character and perseverance–and maybe the ultimate–so we look forward to the magnificent life we are about to enjoy eternally by being faithful.  We ultimately must say–we are privileged to suffer and persevere–our future looks great!!