Friday, July 31, 2009

CRISIS?
#1. Whenever you face difficulties, remember that God is in control of all your circumstances (see Romans 8:28-29).
Psalm 103:19 declares, "The LORD has established His throne in the heavens, and His sovereignty rules over all." This is why believers can be sure that we will overcome every obstacle and problem---because God can handle whatever happens and is responsible for leading us to victory. Though He may not have
initiated our trials, He allowed them. That means He can bring good out of them and teach us powerful lessons if we trust Him.

#2. Remember that the Lord takes full responsibility for all your needs when you are following Him in obedience (see Romans 8:31-32).
Paul confirmed this principle when he wrote, "God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:19). The Father is faithful to provide for you, even when you cannot see how He will do so (Psalm 37:25). After all, He provided His very best---His only begotten Son ---to save you from your sins. Of course, this does not mean that God will give you everything you want. Sometimes the things you desire do not fulfill His purpose for your life. But you can be sure that whatever the Lord offers you--and even in what He withholds-- He always has your best interest at heart (Matt. 7:9-11)

#3.
Remember that if you have trusted Jesus Christ as your Savior, the Lord is always with you (Romans 8:35-37).
You are not alone. No matter where you go or what you go through, God will never forsake you (Deut 31:6,8; John 14:18; Hebrews 13:5). David testified to this when he wrote, "Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil, for You are with me" (Psalm 23:4). Though others may abandon you or leave you for some reason, the Lord won't. He can't because as a believer, you are sealed with His Holy Spirit (Ephesians 4:30). This means that you always have the most powerful Friend, Counselor, and Advocate with you to heal you, help you, and lead you when the road of life grows lonely and confusing.

#4. Remember that the Lord loves you with an eternal, irrevocable love (Romans 8:38-39).
You cannot lose God's love. It is unconditional, sacrificial, and based on His unwavering character--not on your behavior (Romans 5:8; 1 John 4:7-10). That does not mean He condones sin. Oh the contrary, ungodly behavior is destructive to you, so He despises it. Rather, it means His affection for you is not based on what you do. You don't have to earn it or work to keep it. When you fail, you do not forfeit it. And no one could every convince Him to care for you less. His love is freely given and all you have to do is open your heart to receive it.

We cannot escape the changes and trials of life, but believers can have confidence no matter what we face. Look to God no matter what your circumstances are. Rejoice that He is in control, provides for your needs, is always with you, and loves you. Because that, my friend, is the way to have peace, strength, and assurance through even the most troublesome times.

---Charles F. Stanley

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