Troubles

January 19th – John 16:33

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John 16:33

On this side of heaven, a trouble-free life was never promised. In fact, Jesus told us plainly that hardship, sorrow, and trials would be part of our journey. Especially if we choose to follow Him. There will be moments when life feels heavy, unfair, and overwhelming. And there will be seasons when peace seems distant and fragile. We may wonder why the road is so hard or why relief doesn’t come sooner.

Yet Jesus didn’t stop with the warning. He also gave us a promise filled with hope. He reminded us that He has already overcome the world. He’s overcome every struggle in it, and every fear that tries to undo us. Because of that truth, we don’t have to live defeated or ruled by fear. In Christ, we are offered a deep, steady peace that does not depend on circumstances. A peace the world cannot give and cannot take away. Even in the middle of trouble our hearts can rest knowing the battle has already been won. And our Savior walks with us through every storm, holding us securely in His love.

Reflection Question:
Where in your life do you need to lean into the peace Jesus promises, rather than focusing on the trouble around you?

Prayer Prompt:
Lord Jesus, You see the struggles I face and the weight they place on my heart. Thank You for overcoming this world and offering me a peace that cannot be shaken. Help me trust You in the middle of my trials and rest in the victory You have already won. Amen.

 

 

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June 20th – John 16:33

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John 16:33

Many people mistakenly assume that becoming a Christian means a life free from struggle, expecting only easy, peaceful living. But Jesus clearly states that in this world we, as His followers, will face trouble. Our Lord never promises a life free of difficulties. Instead, He prepares us for the reality of trials and tribulations. Yet Christ’s message doesn’t end there. He also assures us that despite these challenges, He has overcome the world. This victory offers a profound, unshakeable, and perfect peace. So even when Satan and his minions throw their worst at us, seeking to shake our faith and disturb our tranquility, Jesus provides a steadfast calm. He is the eye in every hurricane, a place of serene refuge amidst the chaos. This divine peace is not an escape from trouble but a deep assurance and strength within it. So while Christianity doesn’t promise a life of ease, it does offer something far greater. A perfect peace in Jesus, who sustains and anchors us through every storm we face.

June 20th – John 16:33 Read More »

May 15th – 2 Corinthians 4:18

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2 Corinthians 4:18

As Christians, we are called to have eyes that focus on the eternal promises of God. With faith as our lens, seeing the unseen and trusting in His unchanging truth. As we await the return of Jesus, let us fix our eyes on the eternal glory that awaits us. For though the troubles of this world may be many, they are but temporary shadows compared to the radiant light of God’s kingdom. So let us not lose heart in the face of adversity. Instead let us focus on the unseen realities of His eternal realm. Because in that beautiful and glorious kingdom, treasures beyond our comprehension await us. Treasures that far outweigh any present suffering we may endure. In light of that truth, may we press on with faith and perseverance, knowing that our current trials are but a passing moment in the grand scheme of eternity. For the glory that will be revealed in us surpasses all earthly pain and hardship. Therefore, let us eagerly anticipate the day when we will be united with Jesus forever, basking in the fullness of His love and glory for all eternity.

May 15th – 2 Corinthians 4:18 Read More »

May 30th – Philippians 4:7

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Philippians 4:7

“When Christ died He left a will in which He gave His soul to His Father, His body to Joseph of Arimathea, His clothes to the soldiers, and His mother to John. But to His disciples, who had left all to follow Him, He left not silver or gold, but something far better,  His PEACE!” (Matthew Henry) In this life we will all face trauma, heartache, and pain. Yet as Christians no matter what, we can experience an unshakable inner tranquility. Because when we receive Jesus as our Savior, we also receive the peace of God. A peace that surpasses all human understanding. And one of overwhelming security, serenity, and clarity which goes beyond anything we can comprehend. God’s peace is an impenetrable shield for our hearts and minds. One the Lord gives to guard us against anxiety, fear, and negative thoughts. Are you longing for peace in your life? Through a relationship with Christ Jesus, we can find strength and stability in our inner being, that allows us to face life’s challenges with a sound mind and a steadfast heart.

May 30th – Philippians 4:7 Read More »

May 4th – Job 42:10

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Job 42:10

The phrase, don’t judge a book by its cover doesn’t just apply to people, but also situations. When Job’s friends saw his misfortune they were sure he deserved it. They assumed, incorrectly, that Job was suffering because he had sinned against God. How many times as Christians do we do the same? How many times have we thought that those struggling must have done something to deserve it? But the truth is there many be a variety of reasons for someone’s troubles. And it isn’t our job to judge. But rather to encourage, help, and love them through the storm. To remind them of God’s great love, goodness and mercy. And that success and growth are not always immediate. We work in God’s timing. Which mean we may encounter setbacks and obstacles along the way. But if we remain steadfast and persevere through these challenges, like He did with Job, God will bless us mightily, repaying us twice what we lost.

May 4th – Job 42:10 Read More »

March 17th – James 1:2

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James 1:2

An Indian guru once said, “The stones of a river start out rough, but with the current continually bumping and polishing them, they end up being beautiful.” A perfect description of the Christian life. Each of us are as river stones. Rough and jagged around the edges, tossed and turned in the raging current of life. And although no one looks forward to the grating friction brought on by tribulations, we are to think of  troubles as a joyful blessing. Why? Because as James tells us, “the testing of your faith produces perseverance”. (James 1:3) Spiritual perseverance is never giving up no matter how hard our circumstance may be. It’s trusting that God is using our situation to grow our faith, and working all things together for our good. (Rom. 8:28) And what great joy there is in knowing that our Father does so in love, with the purpose of making us “perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.” (James 1:4)

 

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October 19th – Psalm 91:4

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Psalm 91:4

God’s Promises – “I will cover you with My feathers and protect you with My wings.”

We all need a refuge. But sadly, in times of trouble, some seek comfort through alcohol, drugs, food, relationships, or money. But these worldly sanctuaries are nothing more than paper houses that crumble at the first sign of an approaching storm. Yet those who take shelter in Jesus, have an unshakable refuge which can withstand even the greatest typhoon. Isaiah 40:31 compares God’s loving care to that of an eagle. Mighty warriors who protect their young, eagles carry their eaglets away from danger. They fly high above the clouds where the sun shines and no storm rages. Just like that eagle, God carries us on His wings providing all we need to soar through even the toughest of times. And from His unending faithfulness, when we abide in God, we are completely protected under His shelter of strength, love, and grace. And I can think of no safer place to be!

October 19th – Psalm 91:4 Read More »

September Psalm 3:3

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Psalm 3:3

In 1927 a submarine of the Navy was accidentally rammed by a Coast Guard destroyer, and quickly sunk. Heroic efforts were made to rescue six known trapped survivors. They exchanged a series of signals with the rescue force, by tapping on the hull.  As the trapped men used the last of available oxygen in the sub, they sent a morse-coded message. “Is there any hope?” That’s a question king David must have asked as well. His son Absalom was attempting to seize his throne. Forced to leave Jerusalem and flee across the Jordan river, David didn’t know friend from foe. But He did know the goodness of God. David saw firsthand the awesome might and strength of God and how He cares about the troubles of those who love Him. God fought for David, and Absalom’s armies were swept from the field. And as God was David’s mighty Shield, so He will be for us. So when the question is asked, “Is there any hope?” we as Christians can give a resounding yes!  Through faith and the glory of God, though evil surrounds us, it won’t prevail!

September Psalm 3:3 Read More »

June 29th – Deuteronomy 4:29

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Deuteronomy 4:29

It used to be that I only searched for God when it was convenient for me. And funnily enough, it was usually when I needed something. When times were good, my interests settled on things other than my relationship with the Lord. But to seek God literally means to seek His face, or His presence. And to truly seek Him means having a passion and a hunger burning so deep in your heart and soul that you want to feel His presence. Not only during times of trouble, but in every minute of every day of your life. A passion that leads to being committed to not merely seeking Him, but in finding Him! God has and will always be there. Patiently and lovingly He waits for us to remember and return to Him once more. So today and everyday remember God, call upon Him and, “Set your heart and your soul to seek the Lord your God”! (1 Chron. 22:19)

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March 2nd – Isaiah 40:31

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Isaiah 40:31

Each day is filled with its own challenges. And it doesn’t take much for those challenges to overwhelm us. But for those who wait on the Lord, help is at hand. Because when we turn to Him in our times of need, God is there. He is there to strengthen, renew, and carry us through. Our Father in heaven will never forsake us, nor leave us to fight our battle alone. And like an eagle soaring high above the clouds, God provides all we need to soar through even the toughest of times.

March 2nd – Isaiah 40:31 Read More »