Not long after graduating from physical therapy school, passing my board exams, finding a job, and settling into Corpus Christi, Texas, I remember thinking — isn’t there more to life than this? Having a degree, a good paying job, and a nice apartment seemed liked the steps to achieving the “American Dream”, but instead of feeling content, I found myself feeling empty and unfulfilled. This led me on a journey, a journey for which I’m eternally grateful which continues to this day. 

Along the way I realized I took my idea of the “American Dream” and Christianized it. I bought into a lie that said if I followed Jesus, I would be healthy, wealthy and wise. That sounds a little too cliché, but I thought I wouldn’t have to deal with the problems and troubles of this world. I’d be free from illness, pain and suffering. I would have all I wanted and more. 

Recently I’ve discovered I’ve had an unbiblical perspective of certain aspects of my life. As a follower of Christ, I’m not exempt from pain and suffering and the troubles that come in this world, but I can approach them differently. I’m seeking to gain a more biblical understanding of what Jesus taught about the troubles and suffering in this world. I’m not exempt, nor are you, but there is a purpose and a perspective that is greater than what I’ve understood before. I have much to learn about this, but I’m going to embrace this part of the journey.

I’m no longer looking for the easy way out, but deciding to follow Him through it all. I’m looking for His purpose and plans in the troubles, pain and suffering. I’m looking to understand what it means to love as He loved us, by going to the cross, and sharing in His sufferings. I’m giving up my Americanized Christianity to learn from and follow Him.

I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world. (John 16:33 NLT)