Have you ever considered the incredible predictions Jesus made?

• He would be betrayed
• The things written by the prophets will be accomplished
• He would be delivered to the Gentiles, mocked, insulted, and spit upon
• He would be scourged 
• He would be killed
• He would rise on the 3rd day
• There are many mansions in my Father's house and I'm going to prepare a place for you
• I will come again to receive you to myself

Predictions of someones death are always dreadful. People prefer "going quick", in the night, as opposed to know it's coming and having to stress over it and suffer.

Recently, I met someone who was told he would die from cancer in a few months. Well, after a lengthy treatment he survived and is healthy now. His testimony was powerful. It was emotional to hear stories of him singing Amazing Grace with a nurse. I heard another story of someone who was told he had 6 months to live and that was 3.5 years ago.

The common thread was that they did not complain. Rather, they worshipped, praised, and thanked God for being in control. They believed and were healed by the power of the Holy Spirit and the wisdom given by Him to the doctors and medicine makers. I believe these are nothing short of miracles, just delivered differently than say the way the Savior rubbed spit and dirt together to heal a blind man. (Isn't it awesome that while he was spit on and tortured, he used His spit to heal?)

So, we see that keeping the faith allowed two men to overcome the adversity of a predicted death. I think the disciples initial reaction was to stress and complain about Jesus' prediction of His own death. Check out the way Jesus responded:

• Let your heart be not troubled
• You believe in God, believe in me
• I'm preparing something better for you

After the predictions came true, they experienced something better than they could have ever imagined. Because He rose again on the 3rd day after being killed for us on the cross, we too can use His advice in any diversity. Jesus' way is to keep the faith. His way is to believe. Don't complain he says, I am in control. He has a plan with a better outcome.

Try to keep track of your complaints today. When they happen, pray the following:

Lord, help me to not complain, but rather keep on believing and trusting in you, my Lord and Savior.