7-1-15
If everyone of us had an opportunity to sit with pen in hand and write about this topic
of TRIALS, more than likely there would be a myriad of particular difficulties addressed. I want to talk today, however, in such a way that each and every trial might be addressed, so that the readers as, as well as the writer, might know victory his or her trial, through the Lord Jesus Christ.
I suppose that most of us are often surprised and taken off guard when different trials come our way. You might find yourself saying, as I have, "Never in a million years did I think I would face this!" It seems like we should anticipate trials, since John 16:33 teaches us that in this world we will (emphasis mine) have tribulation. however, we are immediately reminded that we can be of good cheer,despite the trial, because Christ has overcome the world.
How may we be victorious in trials? 2 Timothy 3:16 teaches that the inspired and profitable Word of God is to be our Teacher. Therefore, we must look doctrinally at the situation from God's divine perspective. He has promised to always do only that which os good for our spiritual growth and His eternal glory. His ways are perfect, He is sovereign and and He provides abundant grace for every need. He has chosen to demonstrate Himself through
the trial.
Our own resistant response before the perfect ways of our Sovereign Savior has to be confessed and forsaken, in the light of His character and nature. In that spiritually corrective measure, we are now ready to walk in His ways,accomplishing His purposeful intent for the trial.
It is critical, at this juncture in the process of victory, to document a plan of action which will
both please God as well as profit others. God has taught us in Matthew 6::33, that we are simply to seek first the kingdom of God and all these things will be added unto you.
How is it that God wants to use you for His glory, as you compassionately care for the needs of others? If you are home-bound, you can be a prayer warrior, send cards, communicate by electronic devices, or make phone calls. If you love to cook and prepare meals, you could be such blessing to someone who is needing just what you have. If you are able-bodied, there are so many areas of visitation, transportation, Bible Studies, etc. that would encourage others. Check with your pastor with these kinds of needs, and you will find opportunities to bless, and
to be blessed.
So, in review:
See your trial as God sees it.
Confess/ forsake your resistant spirit.
Commit to living for God and others, rather than yourself.
Make a specific plan for getting involved.
May God bless you richly as you serve Him and demonstrate victory in trials, through the Lord Jesus Christ.
(c) 2015 N.A.Collins
Limited copy permission given for one personal file copy
of TRIALS, more than likely there would be a myriad of particular difficulties addressed. I want to talk today, however, in such a way that each and every trial might be addressed, so that the readers as, as well as the writer, might know victory his or her trial, through the Lord Jesus Christ.
I suppose that most of us are often surprised and taken off guard when different trials come our way. You might find yourself saying, as I have, "Never in a million years did I think I would face this!" It seems like we should anticipate trials, since John 16:33 teaches us that in this world we will (emphasis mine) have tribulation. however, we are immediately reminded that we can be of good cheer,despite the trial, because Christ has overcome the world.
How may we be victorious in trials? 2 Timothy 3:16 teaches that the inspired and profitable Word of God is to be our Teacher. Therefore, we must look doctrinally at the situation from God's divine perspective. He has promised to always do only that which os good for our spiritual growth and His eternal glory. His ways are perfect, He is sovereign and and He provides abundant grace for every need. He has chosen to demonstrate Himself through
the trial.
Our own resistant response before the perfect ways of our Sovereign Savior has to be confessed and forsaken, in the light of His character and nature. In that spiritually corrective measure, we are now ready to walk in His ways,accomplishing His purposeful intent for the trial.
It is critical, at this juncture in the process of victory, to document a plan of action which will
both please God as well as profit others. God has taught us in Matthew 6::33, that we are simply to seek first the kingdom of God and all these things will be added unto you.
How is it that God wants to use you for His glory, as you compassionately care for the needs of others? If you are home-bound, you can be a prayer warrior, send cards, communicate by electronic devices, or make phone calls. If you love to cook and prepare meals, you could be such blessing to someone who is needing just what you have. If you are able-bodied, there are so many areas of visitation, transportation, Bible Studies, etc. that would encourage others. Check with your pastor with these kinds of needs, and you will find opportunities to bless, and
to be blessed.
So, in review:
See your trial as God sees it.
Confess/ forsake your resistant spirit.
Commit to living for God and others, rather than yourself.
Make a specific plan for getting involved.
May God bless you richly as you serve Him and demonstrate victory in trials, through the Lord Jesus Christ.
(c) 2015 N.A.Collins
Limited copy permission given for one personal file copy