Persecution
and trials are an inevitable part of living in this world. We cannot control
much of what happens to us on a daily basis; therefore, Paul recommends that we
consider everything as a joyful experience - even the negative events (James 1:1-2).
In
order to see trials as something joyful, we need to adjust our focus. Rather
than seeing how much we are suffering, we look at the positive side of the
events. We rejoice in the Lord's love for us, regardless of our circumstances (Philippians
4:4).
If
we ask the Lord to influence our thinking about our trials, He often reveals a
seed for a miracle hidden within every negative circumstance.
God
does all things beautifully in His time. He comes through for us at the last
minute; that is why we refer to Him as "the God of 11:59". In
reality, God is rarely early, but never late.
All
of His ways are perfect (Psalm 18:30). People may reject us, which causes us to
doubt our self as well as God; but we never have any real cause to doubt Him.
God
may not answer our prayers as we want Him to; but He always answers it in a way
which is best for us. Peace and contentment come only when we totally surrender
our will to God's will.
God's
intention for every Believer is that we trust and obey Him; this is how we
prove our love to Him (John 14:15). He wants nothing less, and nothing more
from us than our very best.
Prayer:
Father
God, we thank You for Your grace, which transforms and molds us into a vessel
of honor for You. You show us what You require of us: to be honest and upright;
to show mercy to others as You shower us with mercy, which we do not deserve;
but mostly to walk humbly before You (Micah 6:8).
We
trust in You with our whole heart, and we do not lean on our own understanding.
We consult You before we do anything, so that You can direct our thoughts,
words and actions (Proverb 3:5-6). We look forward to Your next divine
appointment for us.
Thought
for the Day:
We
always receive God's fullness as we trust in Him; He gives us grace for grace,
and we are complete in Him.
-
John 1:16; Colossians 2:9-10
