:: this post is a part of the 3.31 IMPACT series ::

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Focus

Romans 5:1-5

Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ,  through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God.  Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance;  perseverance, character; and character, hope.  And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.

Decision

Do you find yourself right in the middle of a trial or have you recently come through one?  As followers of Christ we are supposed to glorify Him during the good times and bad, but unfortunately that’s often easier said than done.

Trials can come to us in many different forms, such as financial stress, relationship strains, trouble within friendships, and the list goes on and on.  Satan loves to take these moments to convince us that God is not on our side.

The enemy uses these times of trial to try to get to us to believe that God doesn’t love us or that He’s turned His back on us during this time, when in fact, the, opposite is true.

Does God want to see us, His beloved children, suffer in great pain?  Of course not! But it can seem that way if we believe Satan’s lies. God does allow us to go through certain trials to teach us, and as the Scripture points out, to produce perseverance, character and hope in us.

You may find yourself right in the midst of a life trial, but friend hold steadfast in the Lord.  He is good and He can see the bigger picture of what we cannot. Instead of focusing on why God has placed you in this hard spot, focus on ways to glorify Him during this time.  Turn your “Why?” into “How?” Ask God to show you His presence in this time of need?  Ask Him how you could be an example for others to show God’s love during a difficult time?

God is there! He will never leave your side!  Even when it is difficult to feel His presence, go to His word and allow Him to speak to you through Scripture.  Continue to reach out for Him.  If you seek Him, you will find Him.

Surrender

Dear Heavenly Father, you know the situation that I am dealing with right now.  You know the struggles I am up against and you know that my heart belongs to you.  Help me see your continued love during this difficult time.  I want to preserve through this but I need your help.  The enemy is trying to tempt me away from your grace.  Help me grow from this experience and show others how to be faithful during times of struggle.  In Jesus name, Amen.

Reflection

If you’ve recently gone through a time of suffering, how did you stay strong in the Lord?  In what ways did the Lord give you peace or comfort?

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