Wednesday, November 24, 2010



GRATITUDE IN THE

STORMS OF LIFE


It's been said that you are in one of three positions related to storms in life... You are either just coming out of one, in one now, or headed toward one. Sounds a bit pessimistic to believe that if you are not in a difficult time, you likely will encounter one soon. However, life is full of challenge. Storms are a very real part of our existence.In fact, Jesus promised that we will have many hardships in this life (John 16:33). And was He right!


As unpleasant as trials are, there's still much reason for giving thanks. In my last post, I shared three insights from Dr. Charles Stanley on adversity in the lives of believers... He suggested three provisions believers can count on during adversity: God's presence, a pathway through the trouble, and potential to grow. Today, Let's explore two more.

Protection. God doesn't necessarily keep believers from suffering or disappointment. Stopping the storms may be our goal, but from His point of view, the adversity may be necessary to mature us spiritually. But the Father offers protection by staying with us in the struggle. Once we receive Jesus as our Savior, we are promised that God indwells us and will never leave. What's more, we have assurance that nothing can separate us from His love (Rom. 8:38-39). So our ever-present God walks with us through the hardships, providing guidance and speaking truth into the situation.


Peace. While difficulties cause many people anxiety, believers have God's peace. This inner serenity does not depend on whether circumstances improve. Rather, it's a result of our relationship with Him. Our main focus shouldn't be on fixing the problem but on our dependence upon God. As we recognize the Lord's provision during trials, we can genuinely express gratitude. Doing so will enable us to fix our eyes on Him rather than on our circumstance. We often don't know what the purpose is for each ensuing trial, but we do know that our God is good and trustworthy.

Thank Him today that He is working out His will and His way in your life... Thank Him for His divine protection and peace! Thank Him for the promise of His presence and for giving us the potential to grow! THANK HIM!

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