A lot of people are “warm fuzzy” or “prosperity” Christians. They have been taught that G_d loves them (True) and that there are promises for Blessings (Also True). The preacher has ignored the promises of pain, hard work, and tribulation. Jesus said the burden will be light, and Paul says that we will be not tempted beyond endurance. The implication is that there is a burden, there will be temptation. I’m not suprised by the pain in the world, other’s fallen nature, or the evidence of my fallen nature.

I measure courage and faith in how we cope with these things. Such as doubt, fear… I trust G_d that he eventually will refine me and I will glorify him. To use some work jargon (well I am a psychiatrist) I trust the process….

And Jesus did pray for us all, that he would not lose any that are his.