In the words of Pete Greig, Founder @ 24/7Prayer and Pastor @ Emmaus Road, we are reminded of a stark but essential truth: "Perhaps we should accept what older people and poorer people and many of those with disabilities already know: things are probably going to be very difficult today and just as hard tomorrow. Maybe by adjusting our expectations we can reduce the sense of disappointment, isolation, and unfairness riding on the back of unanswered prayer."

This statement, though sobering, holds a profound scriptural resonance. The Bible does not shy away from the harsh realities of life. Ecclesiastes 3:4 tells us there is “a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance.” This acknowledgment of life's highs and lows is fundamental to our spiritual journey.

In John 16:33, Jesus himself said, “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” This verse does not promise a life devoid of challenges; rather, it assures us of His presence and victory amidst our struggles.

The wisdom in Pete Greig's words lies in adjusting our expectations. This does not mean losing hope or faith, but rather understanding that God's ways and timings are different from ours. Isaiah 55:8-9 reflects this: “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord. “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.”

By looking at the experiences of the marginalized—older people, the poor, those with disabilities—we learn resilience and endurance. Their lives often exemplify Romans 5:3-4, which says, “Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.” Their daily challenges teach them, and us, a dependence on God that is raw and real.

When prayers seem unanswered, it's easy to feel isolated and that life is unfair. However, 2 Corinthians 4:17-18 encourages us, “For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” This perspective shift helps us understand that our current struggles are shaping us for a greater purpose.

In the book of James, we find a call to rejoice in trials because of the maturity and depth they bring to our faith (James 1:2-4). Embracing the hardships of life as opportunities for growth aligns our expectations with God’s will, reducing feelings of disappointment.

Let’s learn from those who face daily adversities. Let their endurance inspire us to adjust our expectations and find strength in God's promise. Remember, hardship is not an indication of God's absence but an invitation to experience His presence and power in the midst of our struggles. “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose” (Romans 8:28). Let this truth anchor us in every season of life.