CAN GOD TRUST YOU WITH TROUBLE?

John Mark, the cousin of Barnabas (Col. 4:10), accompanied Paul and Barnabas on their first missionary journey. Along the way, however, John Mark withdrew from his great journey and returned to Jerusalem his home (Acts 13:13). Although the reason for his untimely departure is not specified in the Bible, there are hints that his unpreparedness caused it. He may have been drawn by affection for his mother who lived in Jerusalem. This shows the depth of immaturity in him.

In Acts 15:36-41 Paul had an altercation with Barnabas. This came as a result of the way John Mark deserted them— it pricked Paul’s emotion. Most people pray earnestly for God’s blessings but forget that it comes with a cost! God usually takes us through a process when he releases His blessing. The question is “Can God trust you with trouble?” Yes, you’ve prayed day and night for the blessing but why forget to prepare for the cost that comes with it? Embarking on the first missionary journey was something revered; John Mark was elated when the opportunity hit him. However, he soon saw God’s blessing as a curse. This is typically what most of us go through.

In third John 2 God has made it clear that his wish for us is a good one so it’s erroneous to believe that God’s blessing is a curse in disguise. You’ve been praying for a job but are you ready for the cost? You’ve been praying for a spouse, but are you ready for the cost?

There is no reason to get scared when the subject of cost  arises. All you need is the help of the Holy Spirit to get you fully prepared to deal with the cost. Remember with God all things are possible (Mark 10:27).