IN ALL THINGS TRUST GOD!

 EVERYDAY IN THE WORD!

MONDAY JANUARY 15, 2024.

SUBJECT: IN ALL THINGS TRUST GOD! 

Memory verse: "Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the LORD delivers him out of them all." (Psalm 34 vs 19.)

READ: Psalm 34 vs 18 - 19; 50 vs 15; 71 vs 20:

34:18: The LORD is near to those who have a broken heart, and saves such as have a contrite spirit.

34:19: Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the LORD delivers him out of them all.

50:15: Call upon Me in the days of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall glorify Me.

71:20: You, who have shown me great and severe troubles, shall revive me again, and bring me up again from the depths of the earth.

INTIMATION:

Troubles or problems come to every member of the human race. Christianity doesn’t guarantee trouble-free life. They come in different magnitudes, some minor, and some big. Problems don't make any appointments before coming, they don't respect age, nationality, or levels of income, or success. They usually show up when you least expect them, and stay in your life much longer than you want them to.

We often wish we could escape problems; the pain of grief, loss, sorrow, and failure, or even the small daily frustrations that constantly wear us down. God promises to be our source of power, courage, and wisdom, helping us through our problems. Sometimes He chooses to deliver us from those problems. When troubles come, don’t get frustrated with God. Instead, admit that you need God’s help and thank Him for being by your side.

Problems and difficulties are painful but inevitable. Many people believe that Christianity should offer a problem-free life. Consequently, as life gets tough, they draw back disappointed. Instead, they should determine to prevail with God through life’s storms. You can’t prevail with God unless you have troubles to prevail over. They sometimes present themselves as opportunities for growth. As Christians, our reactions, and attitude when faced with problems determine how long we stay in the problem, and how we obtain the promises and provisions of God inherent in our proper conduct in those problems. 

Many Christians find out that when they determine to follow God, they immediately encounter great obstacles. Don't let any obstacles or problems you encounter in following God, make you miss His glorious destiny for you. Don't run away from problems, because that will not solve them, and they have the capacity of drawing you away from your promise land. It is wise to face them squarely, accepting God's promise of help (Psalm 50 vs 15), and act as we should. Remember, no problem is too complicated for God if you are willing to let Him help you. Of course, nothing is impossible with God (Mark 10 vs 27), and nothing too hard for Him (Genesis 18 vs 14; Jeremiah 32 vs 17 & 27).

When God is at work, troubles, suffering, setbacks, and hardship may still occur. We are encouraged to face the troubles or difficulties with happiness when they do come. Problems have a way of developing patience and character by teaching us to trust God to do what is best for us. Always look for ways to honor God in your present situation of problems, remembering that God will not abandon you. 

A case study of Joseph (Genesis 37 - 50) showed a man who encountered many troubles in his journey of life; he was betrayed and deserted by his family; he was exposed to sexual temptation, and punished for doing the right thing; he endured a long imprisonment and was forgotten by those he helped. But his positive response and confidence in God transformed each set back into a step forward. He didn’t spend much time asking “Why?”. His approach was “What shall I do now?” Those who met Joseph were aware that wherever he went and whatever he did, God was with him. When you are facing setback, the beginning of a Joseph-like attitude is to acknowledge that God is with you. There is nothing like His presence to shed new light on a dark situation. 

Also, carefully watch out for His predetermined plan for you. His promise and provision awaits those who tarry to the end. Remember this always, "Blessed is the man that endures temptation; for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those  who love Him" (James 1 vs 12).

Prayer: Abba Father, in everything I give You thanks, for I know Your thoughts for me is of good, and not of evil. Your plan and purpose for me must prevail because I put my trust in You. In all things You remain my God, and I will stop at nothing in putting my trust in You in all circumstances, in Jesus’ Name I have prayed, Amen.

PRAISE THE LORD!