September 24, 2012 - Handling Adversity

Are you going through a rough time right now? Are you facing some trials?

If so, please know that God has got your back so you can trust Him! Know that God is not taken by surprise and will work things for your good – it is a promise He made in Romans 8:28!

Yet if you are struggling to accept that promise, the problem is not God – it is you. You see faith is something that has to have an object; and if you have not spent time in the Word during the calm times, you can’t expect to be “game-ready” during the stormy times. Without a solid knowledge of God’s Word, you will not know what promises to claim or what attributes of God to trust in…

It is just like in sports; games are not won on game day, they are won in the preparation. A coach’s job is to have his players ready to face the opposition – this requires time together.

I remember reading a quote from a championship boxer that said he didn’t win the belt in the ring but on the roads during training…

My challenge to you this week is to make sure you are daily in preparation to face the trials of life; it is more difficult to find answers in the midst of adversity than in the quiet times (practice.)

(From The Message)

Psalm 119: ^57-64 Because you have satisfied me, God, I promise
    to do everything you say.
I beg you from the bottom of my heart: smile,
    be gracious to me just as you promised.
When I took a long, careful look at your ways,
    I got my feet back on the trail you blazed.
I was up at once, didn’t drag my feet,
    was quick to follow your orders.
The wicked hemmed me in—there was no way out—
    but not for a minute did I forget your plan for me.
I get up in the middle of the night to thank you;
    your decisions are so right, so true—I can’t wait till morning!
I’m a friend and companion of all who fear you,
    of those committed to living by your rules.
Your love, God, fills the earth!
    Train me to live by your counsel.