Stabilizing Truths When Trouble Comes
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Trouble seems to loom around every individual. It seems the older one gets, the more trouble they face. Trouble can be anything that hits us out of the norm. It may be a death; perhaps a job loss; or just a bad day. None of us are exempt from trouble. And, whether we want to face it or not, we will all have a bad day. So, what can we do when trouble comes?
First of all, you can’t make it without the Lord! I know that’s a bold statement – but, oh, is it so true! You need to be saved! Accept Jesus Christ as your personal savior, today, if you haven’t already. Call upon Him, the one and only, that will give you comfort and strength in your trouble. When you first do that, then you can experience His grace and strength in time of trouble.
For the Christian, God’s strength is there when trouble comes. That’s why a Christian can find comfort when a loved one dies. When the whole world seems to be falling apart, the Christian can stand on their faith, believing God. These wonderful truths keep the Christian going in life and keep him/her balanced and secure when tragedy or trouble happens.
Below are truths I wrote about last year, about this time, in this newspaper column. But, oh the truths are so real – they’re worth repeating. I hope the truths below will be a comfort to your soul.
#1 Realize that God’s LOVE for me will never change. God loves us with an everlasting love – regardless what type of trouble we’re going through or in. The Lord never stops loving us. We may stop loving Him – but his love is an everlasting love toward us (see Jeremiah 31:3). Whatever we’re going through, our Lord will NEVER stop loving us. Think about this, friend – God loves you! Do you believe it? You should! Stand on this wonderful promise in God’s Word. If you’re in trouble today, God still loves you!
#2 Recognize that God’s PURPOSE for your life is Christlikeness. God wants to conform you to His son, Jesus Christ, when trouble comes. We’re not to become bitter, mad, hateful, resentful or have a ‘pity party’ when trouble comes. We’re to simply say, “What would Jesus do in this situation?” Conforming to Jesus Christ should be the on-going goal of every Christian – especially in times of trouble (see Romans 8:28,29).
#3 Resolve to look to God’s WORD for the final answer. Are you troubled today? Do you need answers to life’s questions? The Word of God (the Bible) has the answer! If
you believe the Bible, then stand and claim its promises. One of the reasons this world is becoming more and more ungodly is because people have abandoned the Bible. When trouble comes, don’t abandon the truth. Embrace the truth! And, if you believe the Bible, then go to a church that preaches the whole council of God! Look to the Bible for the answers in life. Apply its principles and statutes in life – you’ll be glad you did! (see II Timothy 3:15-17).
#4 Rely on the GRACE of God. God’s grace is this – His riches bestowed upon us, even though we don’t deserve it! This is the grace of God. God’s grace will always teach us to deny ungodliness and worldly lusts, too! (see Titus 2:11,12) Many want a ‘feel-good’ religion, without the obedience to God’s plan. They are grateful that God saved them by His grace, but don’t want the consequences of having to live by that grace. Many are in trouble today because they have violated scripture, hindering God’s grace working in their life. God’s grace will never lead you down a road that is contrary to what Scripture says. Follow scripture and rely on God’s grace! Ask God for His grace (favor) to be bestowed on your life through your trial. He will give it to those who call upon His name.
First of all, you can’t make it without the Lord! I know that’s a bold statement – but, oh, is it so true! You need to be saved! Accept Jesus Christ as your personal savior, today, if you haven’t already. Call upon Him, the one and only, that will give you comfort and strength in your trouble. When you first do that, then you can experience His grace and strength in time of trouble.
For the Christian, God’s strength is there when trouble comes. That’s why a Christian can find comfort when a loved one dies. When the whole world seems to be falling apart, the Christian can stand on their faith, believing God. These wonderful truths keep the Christian going in life and keep him/her balanced and secure when tragedy or trouble happens.
Below are truths I wrote about last year, about this time, in this newspaper column. But, oh the truths are so real – they’re worth repeating. I hope the truths below will be a comfort to your soul.
#1 Realize that God’s LOVE for me will never change. God loves us with an everlasting love – regardless what type of trouble we’re going through or in. The Lord never stops loving us. We may stop loving Him – but his love is an everlasting love toward us (see Jeremiah 31:3). Whatever we’re going through, our Lord will NEVER stop loving us. Think about this, friend – God loves you! Do you believe it? You should! Stand on this wonderful promise in God’s Word. If you’re in trouble today, God still loves you!
#2 Recognize that God’s PURPOSE for your life is Christlikeness. God wants to conform you to His son, Jesus Christ, when trouble comes. We’re not to become bitter, mad, hateful, resentful or have a ‘pity party’ when trouble comes. We’re to simply say, “What would Jesus do in this situation?” Conforming to Jesus Christ should be the on-going goal of every Christian – especially in times of trouble (see Romans 8:28,29).
#3 Resolve to look to God’s WORD for the final answer. Are you troubled today? Do you need answers to life’s questions? The Word of God (the Bible) has the answer! If
#4 Rely on the GRACE of God. God’s grace is this – His riches bestowed upon us, even though we don’t deserve it! This is the grace of God. God’s grace will always teach us to deny ungodliness and worldly lusts, too! (see Titus 2:11,12) Many want a ‘feel-good’ religion, without the obedience to God’s plan. They are grateful that God saved them by His grace, but don’t want the consequences of having to live by that grace. Many are in trouble today because they have violated scripture, hindering God’s grace working in their life. God’s grace will never lead you down a road that is contrary to what Scripture says. Follow scripture and rely on God’s grace! Ask God for His grace (favor) to be bestowed on your life through your trial. He will give it to those who call upon His name.
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Arrogance & Pride
Thursday, September 16, 2010
The story is told of a mighty sailing vessel that was caught in a terrible storm. Battered by winds, and tossed by the seas, the ship was desperately seeking to ride out the storm. In the distance was spotted the lights of another sailing vessel, supposedly. On commands from the captain, the first ship sent a message to the other ship to change their course or the two ships would collide. The captain waited, then received the reply, "You change your course." Infuriated by the other ship's failure to comply, the captain replied, "As the captain of this ship and a former member of the Royal British Navy, I command you to change 
courses." The reply soon came, "As the owner of the lighthouse whose lights you see, I suggest you change your course or face the rocks of the shore."
The captain's arrogance and stubbornness almost cost the whole crew their lives. He failed to comply with the advice of the "other ship" and instead engaged in a battle of wills. Arrogance is nothing new in our society. Some lead with an arrogant spirit. If we’re not careful, we can fall into the trap of disregarding others and lead our lives without others’ input. I don’t know about you, but I work better in a TEAM environment. T-E-A-M is a great acrostic for this thought: “Together, Everyone Achieves More!”
It seems some in leadership isolate themselves from others. This truly shows a lack of confidence on their part. A man or woman who claims to ‘have it together’ expressing no desire for help from others is bound for trouble ahead. Situations arise in our lives, and, if we’re not careful, we will choose our own desires over the advice of others around us. Does this sound like you?
God’s Word, the Bible, has some advice for those who feel they must ‘do it alone.’ We find a verse in the Old Testament which reads, “Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counselors there is safety.” (Proverbs 11:14) Also, we see another verse in Proverbs 15:22, which reads, “Without counsel purposes are disappointed: but in the multitude of counselors they are established.” What wonderful truth to guide us as we see the advice from others.
Friend, you can’t lead alone. God never designed the human life to be an ‘island to itself.’ Someone once said that it’s lonely at the top – especially if you’re in a leadership roll. And, there’s some truth to this statement. Those who have important positions of leadership, many times, are at the top of their ladder, all by themselves. While this may be the scenario that God has allowed you to be in, it is vitally important that you take PEOPLE with you to the top, which will help and guide you as you lead.
Remember Jesus had 12 disciples whom he invested His life in. Even though one betrayed Him, he still invested in their lives. Realize that you don't have to make difficult decisions on your own. We all face times when we're given two paths to take and must decide the best one to follow. In those times, seek Scriptural counsel. Pray that God would direct you. Open your heart to His leading through the preaching of His Word. Seek advice from a godly older Christian. Allow God to speak to you through the counsel of others. Stop the arrogance and pride and find a friend who truly will guide you down life’s road. You’ll be glad you went with another, and not alone!
The captain's arrogance and stubbornness almost cost the whole crew their lives. He failed to comply with the advice of the "other ship" and instead engaged in a battle of wills. Arrogance is nothing new in our society. Some lead with an arrogant spirit. If we’re not careful, we can fall into the trap of disregarding others and lead our lives without others’ input. I don’t know about you, but I work better in a TEAM environment. T-E-A-M is a great acrostic for this thought: “Together, Everyone Achieves More!”
It seems some in leadership isolate themselves from others. This truly shows a lack of confidence on their part. A man or woman who claims to ‘have it together’ expressing no desire for help from others is bound for trouble ahead. Situations arise in our lives, and, if we’re not careful, we will choose our own desires over the advice of others around us. Does this sound like you?
God’s Word, the Bible, has some advice for those who feel they must ‘do it alone.’ We find a verse in the Old Testament which reads, “Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counselors there is safety.” (Proverbs 11:14) Also, we see another verse in Proverbs 15:22, which reads, “Without counsel purposes are disappointed: but in the multitude of counselors they are established.” What wonderful truth to guide us as we see the advice from others.
Friend, you can’t lead alone. God never designed the human life to be an ‘island to itself.’ Someone once said that it’s lonely at the top – especially if you’re in a leadership roll. And, there’s some truth to this statement. Those who have important positions of leadership, many times, are at the top of their ladder, all by themselves. While this may be the scenario that God has allowed you to be in, it is vitally important that you take PEOPLE with you to the top, which will help and guide you as you lead.
Remember Jesus had 12 disciples whom he invested His life in. Even though one betrayed Him, he still invested in their lives. Realize that you don't have to make difficult decisions on your own. We all face times when we're given two paths to take and must decide the best one to follow. In those times, seek Scriptural counsel. Pray that God would direct you. Open your heart to His leading through the preaching of His Word. Seek advice from a godly older Christian. Allow God to speak to you through the counsel of others. Stop the arrogance and pride and find a friend who truly will guide you down life’s road. You’ll be glad you went with another, and not alone!
Freedom Is Rising Up
Saturday, September 11, 2010
Freedom is rising up at Ground Zero in lower Manhattan, NY. And, good, patriotic Americans are glad. Currently, about 2,000 workers are constructing a magnificent site, which will honor those individuals murdered on the horrific events of September 11th. My understanding is that there will be new buildings built as well as two fountain memorials, where the original twin towers stood, honoring those that died.
Two years ago, it was difficult to dream that this would all come to fruition – but it finally is! Freedom is truly rising up where planes once struck the buildings! Where the two twin towers stood will be a fountain memorial, sending tens of thousands of gallons of water through the system each day. The pumps to actually pump the water through the memorial can be seen if you go to the sight today. Engineers, workers, architects, and literally thousands of workers, who are laboring seven days a week, are preparing the site for opening day on September 11th, 2011. This projected opening day will mark the 10-year anniversary of 9-11.
Some 400 trees will be planted around the memorial site and gardens, along with the construction of four brand new towers. Of course, some of these buildings will take years to construct – but the momentum is already there and the construction is taking place. Each day, tourists from around the globe go and gaze at the awesome construction. It is estimated that some 10,000 workers will soon be on the site, to speed up the construction!
What is surprising, as well, is what goes on seven stories beneath the site. Below, there will be the National September 11 Memorial Museum. Already, in the place, is the ‘last column’ that stood from the Twin towers. Tourists and visitors can see the column, as well as tour a state-of-the-art museum, depicting the events of September 11th. The museum will be a walking reminder of what happened on September 11th. Future generations will be able to see the horrific effects of terrorism and its evil results. Truly the museum will be a must for future generations.
The actual memorial, outside, will remember and honor the nearly 3,000 souls that were murdered on September 11th as well as the first bombing of the World Trade Center, which took place on February 26th, 1993. The Memorial will consist of two massive pools, as described above, which will be set within the footprints of the Twin Towers. Waterfalls will cascade down the side of the huge walls, where the actual towers stood. The names of the nearly 3,000 individuals that perished will be inscribed around the edges of the Memorial pools. The names of those murdered at the Pentagon in Washington, D.C. will also be etched on the sides. People will be able to touch the names of the individuals, much like the Vietnam Memorial in Washington, D.C.
As we celebrate September 11th, may all of us never forget what took place. May the memorial and the day remind us of the horrific effects of radical Islamic terrorism. May future generations never allow these extremists have a foothold on our children, our culture, and our way of life. May our military continue to squash and deplete terrorism cells that threaten our culture. And, may good, decent American citizens stand for true, American patriotic principles that founded our country.
May freedom reign from sea to shining sea! May we be free from tyranny; free from radical Islamic radicalism that oppresses women and children; free from dictators that want to cram socialistic agendas down our throats; free from oppression and excessive control of our lives; free from enslavement of radical regimes that will stifle our religious freedoms; and free from those who wish to take everything we’ve earned and worked so hard for and use it for their own personal gain.
Truly, freedom is not free. May we never forget our brave military men and women who are continuing to ensure our freedom in America. May we pray for those who are on the fighting lines in Afghanistan and Iraq. And, may we raise our hands in praise to the true and Almighty God, who has granted us the liberty and freedom to worship as we please and work – the One who has allowed us to play, labor, and toil to make our country a better place!
Some 400 trees will be planted around the memorial site and gardens, along with the construction of four brand new towers. Of course, some of these buildings will take years to construct – but the momentum is already there and the construction is taking place. Each day, tourists from around the globe go and gaze at the awesome construction. It is estimated that some 10,000 workers will soon be on the site, to speed up the construction!
What is surprising, as well, is what goes on seven stories beneath the site. Below, there will be the National September 11 Memorial Museum. Already, in the place, is the ‘last column’ that stood from the Twin towers. Tourists and visitors can see the column, as well as tour a state-of-the-art museum, depicting the events of September 11th. The museum will be a walking reminder of what happened on September 11th. Future generations will be able to see the horrific effects of terrorism and its evil results. Truly the museum will be a must for future generations.
The actual memorial, outside, will remember and honor the nearly 3,000 souls that were murdered on September 11th as well as the first bombing of the World Trade Center, which took place on February 26th, 1993. The Memorial will consist of two massive pools, as described above, which will be set within the footprints of the Twin Towers. Waterfalls will cascade down the side of the huge walls, where the actual towers stood. The names of the nearly 3,000 individuals that perished will be inscribed around the edges of the Memorial pools. The names of those murdered at the Pentagon in Washington, D.C. will also be etched on the sides. People will be able to touch the names of the individuals, much like the Vietnam Memorial in Washington, D.C.
As we celebrate September 11th, may all of us never forget what took place. May the memorial and the day remind us of the horrific effects of radical Islamic terrorism. May future generations never allow these extremists have a foothold on our children, our culture, and our way of life. May our military continue to squash and deplete terrorism cells that threaten our culture. And, may good, decent American citizens stand for true, American patriotic principles that founded our country.
May freedom reign from sea to shining sea! May we be free from tyranny; free from radical Islamic radicalism that oppresses women and children; free from dictators that want to cram socialistic agendas down our throats; free from oppression and excessive control of our lives; free from enslavement of radical regimes that will stifle our religious freedoms; and free from those who wish to take everything we’ve earned and worked so hard for and use it for their own personal gain.
Truly, freedom is not free. May we never forget our brave military men and women who are continuing to ensure our freedom in America. May we pray for those who are on the fighting lines in Afghanistan and Iraq. And, may we raise our hands in praise to the true and Almighty God, who has granted us the liberty and freedom to worship as we please and work – the One who has allowed us to play, labor, and toil to make our country a better place!
Troubles, Trials, and Testings
Friday, September 03, 2010
While in India, she suffered from an accident that caused Carmichael to be bedridden for years. And, for years, ladies from India ministered to her body, helping her and taking care of her while in bed. Ms. Carmichael continued writing and doing her missionary work from bed. She wrote poems, books, and literature that would be used to inspire many generations – all while being bedridden. It truly is amazing what God can do despite our circumstances.
Amy Carmichael wrote a book entitled, “If.” This book has been used for years to comfort those going through trials and tribulations. Below is an excerpt from her book, entitled, “If.” It is my prayer that the words below would encourage someone today who may be going through a trial, trouble or testing in their life. I would also encourage you to read more about the life of Amy Carmichael. You’ll be glad you did!
If when an answer I did not expect
Comes to a prayer which I believed I truly meant,
I shrink back from it;
If the burden my Lord asks me to bear
Be not the burden of my heart’s choice,
And I fret inwardly and do not
Welcome His will,
Then I know nothing of Calvary love. (pg. 69)
If I wonder why something trying is allowed,
And press for prayer that it may be removed;
If I cannot be trusted with any disappointment,
and cannot go on in peace under any mystery,
then I know nothing of Calvary love, (pg. 71).
If I ask to be delivered from trial rather
Than for deliverance out of it,
To the praise of His glory;
If I forget that the way of the cross leads to the cross
And not to a bank of flowers;
If I regulate my life on these lines,
Or even unconsciously my thinking, so that I am surprised when the
way is rough and think it strange,
though the word is, “Think it not strange,”
“Count it all joy,”
then I know nothing of Calvary love. (pg. 75)