Pastor Tim Keller says that, in life, “Fifty percent of the reason we get so discouraged and despondent is we’re shocked when something bad happens. We say, ‘This isn’t how it’s supposed to be.’ ” In other words, we tend to believe that since we’ve placed our faith in Jesus, and because we’ve tried to be “good” Christians, a comfortable and problem-free existence should be ours.

New York Giants and New York Yankees Chaplain George McGovern explained the pitfall of such thinking to the professional athletes he works with. He said, “When you hang your hopes on non-guaranteed promises rather than God’s promises, you are destined to experience deep disappointment.” Keller adds that with this type of mindset, “You’re going to be continually shocked and even overthrown.”

Though God doesn’t promise us rosy circumstances, worldly success, or the fulfillment of all our “wants,” He does present an abundance of promises that, if we cling to them, will help us stand during tough times. His guarantees include: “Forgiveness of sins for all who repent” (Luke 24:47); triumph over sin and death for all who receive God’s wonderful gifts of grace and righteousness “through this one Man, Jesus Christ” (Romans 5:17); an Advocate, the Holy Spirit, who will never leave those who love God and accept His commandments (John 14:15-21); “peace of mind and heart” that the world can’t provide (John 14:27); rest for the “weary” who bring their “heavy burdens” to Jesus (Matthew 11:28-30); eternal life through faith in Jesus Christ (Titus 1:1-2).

In a world where people and circumstances disappoint, we can experience true joy by discarding our sense of worldly entitlement and placing our hope in God’s promises.