Many difficulties and obstacles hinder the way of the Christian man during his spiritual journey, but the Lord promised that those difficulties and tribulations would turn into glories.
Bishop Bishoy of Kafr El-Sheikh and Damietta said in his article Why are you sad, my soul, why are you upsetting me? told us about the eternal joy promised by God. The Lord Jesus said to his disciples, Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me. (Luke 9: 23). This means that the Lord promised his disciples that their joy will surpass their sorrows all sadness because of their faith and following his commandments.
Therefore, we find David the Prophet asking: Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God. (Psalm 43: 5) We must overcome the difficulties, the tribulations and the sorrows until we reach the joys. The sorrows of the Cross was followed by the joy of the resurrection. Those who sow with tears will reap with songs of joy.
Jesus said: in this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world. (John John 16; 33) and St. Paul said God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted[d] beyond what you can bear. (1 Corinthians 10: 13)
The tribulations, the persecutions and the sorrows should increase our faith and confidence in the Lord s promises of spiritual joy. Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! (Philippians 4:4)
