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Author:

Jeremiah Blackburn

 

Date:

2003

 

Last Modified:

2003

 

Synopsis:

A short devotion on how to view trials and tribulations

 

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Trials and Tribulations

Another trial. Aggg I don't know if I can deal with this. God take this away from me....why are You making me go through this? Ever wonder why God may allow us to go through a specific trial or situation. I mean its easy to know that this is a sin filled world and yes the results of sin is death and disease. But ever think that it could be deeper? I had these thoughts last night so I thought I would share. This is applicable to all trials and situations not just this specific one or that one.

OK thoughts with applicable Bible verses (you may say ahh but lets think it logically - no everything should be biblically based):

1. We are to "count it all joy" when we go through trials that we may be refined and builds perseverance and patience 1 Pet 1:6-8, Jam 1:2-4. When I say joy I think I read it best that its an faith not in present circumstances but in the unchanging relationship with the One who holds the entire universe in the palm of His hand. Next time going through a situation realize that you are in a covenant relationship with God who tells us that we can bring every situation to Him and He will take care of us through His strength and wisdom.

2. We are to live life walking in faith. The just live by faith (Hab 2:4, Gal 3:11, Rom 1:17). So how shall we live by faith? Heb 11:1 its the abundance of all things hoped for and evidence of things not seen. Do you walk like you believe in God in faith? Faith is more then head knowledge of believing there is a God but walking in a relationship because there is One!

3. God intends for every situation for His glory. Romans 8:28 says we know that ALL things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. We serve a mighty and awesome God who knows something completely (in my mind) worthless fact of how many hairs are in my head. How much more would He care about the situations that I face on a daily situation? God is not a God who is impossible to approach. We do not approach our God who likens Himself as our Father as one who enters this huge room with millions of people where the most righteous are in the front and you are jumping in the back hoping He sees you. NO! He knows you completely as if you are the only one who ever existed. He sees you as His son with love and compassion. He knows you completely.

4. So knowing all this, let us quit thinking about ourselves for a minute. We live in a world of lost and hurting people who are looking at the way we live our lives - both when things are going good and when we are facing trials. Jesus calls us to be a light (Matt 5:14) and to be salt (Matt 5:13). So what is a possible good that could come out of trials and tribulations and situations that are tough besides of perseverance, and refining of us? It will also produce a lifestyle witness. People will go through situations that they will be able to reflect on how you handled a particular situation and be opened to the gospel. People who are hurting will come to you and you will be able to share because you "been there, done that" but with the Hope of the world.

Think about it next time you are facing something? What possible good can come from this situation. How will what is happening now bring glory to Him? Is my reaction to this situation one that is based on faith or knowledge or emotion? Be blessed and highly favored of the Lord.

 

 

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Please include the following statement on any distributed copy: By Jeremiah Blackburn. © The Breath Ministry. Website: www.bullfrg.com