Are Desires Granted or Are Trials Inevitable?
In this article, you will learn how Psalms 37:4 contradicts James 4:3, 2 Timothy 3:12, Luke 14:27, John 16:33, Matthew 10:22, 1 Peter 4:12, Hebrews 12:6, Matthew 7:14, Romans 8:36 and Philippians 4:11. Find the translations at the bottom of the page..
The Bible offers a tapestry of teachings that, at first glance, may seem to contradict each other regarding the fulfillment of personal desires and the nature of a faithful life. Consider Psalm 37:4, which suggests that delighting in the Lord results in the fulfillment of the desires of one’s heart. This verse paints a reassuring picture of divine generosity, akin to having a dependable friend who supports your dreams.
However, this promise appears to clash with other biblical passages. James 4:3 highlights a condition for unanswered prayers: asking with wrong motives. It implies that God’s granting of wishes isn't automatic and scrutinizes our intentions. Meditate on the analogy of a parent withholding excessive candy from a child to prevent cavities, recognizing that not all desires are beneficial.
Moreover, 2 Timothy 3:12 warns believers of inevitable persecution, and Luke 14:27 calls them to bear their cross, suggesting that discomfort is part and parcel of a genuine journey of faith. These verses reflect the reality that life’s path can be rocky, emphasizing spiritual growth over immediate gratification.
Similarly, John 16:33 and Matthew 10:22 remind followers that tribulation and hatred may accompany faith. The image of wading through a storm to reach a distant island emphasizes that fulfillment is not always immediate nor devoid of hardship.
Other verses like 1 Peter 4:12, Hebrews 12:6, and Romans 8:36 suggest that trials and divine discipline are inherent to a believer's life, akin to the refining process that strengthens steel. They challenge the simplicity of desires always being fulfilled without struggle. Matthew 7:14 and Philippians 4:11 further highlight the difficulty and virtue of contentment on the believer's path, suggesting a broader, mature understanding of desires that transcends instant gratification.
Through these contrasting messages, the Bible challenges readers to seek a deeper, thoughtful faith where divine wisdom guides the fulfillment of desires, balancing joy and perseverance.
| # | Verse | Translation |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Psalms 37:4 | Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart. |
| 2. | James 4:3 | Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume [it] upon your lusts. [lusts: or, pleasures] |
| 3. | 2 Timothy 3:12 | Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. |
| 4. | Luke 14:27 | And whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple. |
| 5. | John 16:33 | These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world. |
| 6. | Matthew 10:22 | And ye shall be hated of all [men] for my name's sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved. |
| 7. | 1 Peter 4:12 | Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: |
| 8. | Hebrews 12:6 | For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth. |
| 9. | Matthew 7:14 | Because strait [is] the gate, and narrow [is] the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. [Because: or, How] |
| 10. | Romans 8:36 | As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. |
| 11. | Philippians 4:11 | Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, [therewith] to be content. |