Is it just me, or is everyone's circle of family and friends going through difficult times? The great (or he is in my eyes!) Charles Stanley said "before Jesus ever sets before us an "impossible" task, He knows what He is going to do. But He watches us and tests us to see how well we will react - either in fear, confusion, or faith!" When Jesus was getting ready to feed the 5,000, He asked Phillip, "Where shall we buy bread, that these may eat?" John 6:5.. It goes on to say that Jesus said this to test Phillip (vs 6) Jesus knew He was going to feed these people with no problem. The test is do we trust Jesus when He brings an impossible situation in our lives? My first thought is fear. Wow, do I have lots of work to do to overcome fear.
I would say to those family and friends, there are going to be hard days, no doubt about it. Don't think you are exempt because you pray and read your Bible, and even go to church! God is ready to test your faith. Will you pass the test? Through Bible study and prayer is where you will grow your roots in Christ - stay grounded; and of course, go to church to worship and fellowship with other believers. Until the day Christ returns, we are going to have trials -
"Then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. Now when these things begin to happen, look up and lift up your heads, because your redemption draws near!" Luke 21:27-28. Hallelujah and Praise God. I can hardly wait!!
Blessings!
Gayle
P.S. Don't forget to hug your daughter!!
Love this new picture!!!!
ReplyDeleteSo God has really been testing our faith this past couples years.... I have a new understand to Matthew 5:10 you are blessed when your commitment to God provokes persecution. The persecution drives you deeper into God's kingdom."
Gayle you also stated, "Don't think you are exempt because you pray and read your Bible, and even go to church!"
LOVE IT!!! We seem to think this... here is a verse I have hung onto from the message, Romans 8:17 "We go through exactly what Christ goes through. If we go through the hard times with him, then we will certainly go through the good times with him.
A fabulous reminder there will be hard time and a hope that their will be good times!!
Thank Gayle!
What a precious picture, reminds me when Brian and Bobby were that age. I do enjoy your blogs, this is a good one, not much I can add, only ditto!!! Lavonne
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