Times of trials can either move us toward God or away from Him. In my trials I found the presence of the Lord to be ever so near.
Author Joseph Lincoln said, "Troubles are like hot weather; it sours milk, but it sweetens apples."
Job said, (13:15) Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him: but I will maintain mine own ways before him.
In troubled times it would do us well to remember a few truths that are easily forgotten.
1. God's ways are not our ways, so we will never figure Him out
Isaiah 55:8 For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord.
2. We can produce nothing through self-effort, so we must trust the Lord for everything — seek the Lord's will then actively pursue it.
John 15:5 I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.
3. We can accomplish nothing through worry. Trust is the only option we have, and it is the only option that will work.
Philippians 4:6-7 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
Ideas for this unprofitable blog are taken from The Sermon Notebook—Biblical resources for preachers and teachers of the word of God. They allow these sermons to be used as the Lord leads but not for profit.
