Faith Persevering in Trial; Wheres the money
The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?
Psalms 27:1
Talk about a powerful statement! I want to speak to you friend, from a place of understanding with full sincerity of heart. I am for my fellow man and sympathetic to human condition. I am genuinely bothered by much of what I see in regards to the great suffering there is. Despite that the Bible tells us that suffering is very much a part of this life, it bothers me no less. When I witness those who are starving to death because there is no food or clean drinking water. I once prayed for riches just so that I could give it to those in need. I declared, "Lord if you will give it to me, I will use it for those in need." Truthfully, that is still a desire in my heart, but I am allowing God's will for my life to play out. If it does not include me being wealthy, or even rich then so be it. I know that there are others way I can help those in need. I know that God is not limited to my personal resources, or anything for that matter. He is Almighty and capable of all things. So you're wondering why I started off talking about those suffering.
I talk to many people and the general notion is that things are difficult. The economy is still very unstable, despite what the media portrays about recovery. The job market is mediocre at best, with many jobs being outsourced to foreign soil. Other jobs simply won't return due to advances in technology cutting down the need for a human element in production. What product or service do you know of that hasn't been manipulated by some type of machine or automated computer system? Tough to think of any right? We still have not recovered from the housing market crash. Gas prices are outrageous and hybrid/fuel efficient vehicles are often extremely pricey and unappealing. The list goes on. Needless to say, many are facing trials right now that they have never faced before.
I recall reading many articles about those who have become homeless during the turmoil of the recent recession(s). I've struggled to wrap my mind around the idea of actual "tent cities" where many have gathered that lost their homes to foreclosure. Others were barely surviving off of their unemployment, which for many has been stripped away due to state "budget shortfalls" in the millions. Others that have jobs will lose them because of the budget cuts.
Many are suffering. I am facing many difficult challenges today. Some of the troubles I have were brought upon myself through my own actions. Other difficulties I am facing were not as a result of my own actions, but due to living in a wicked world. Friend we will suffer while we are in this life, but God's word tells us to count it all joy.
"And let us not be weary in well doing; for in due season we shall reap if we faint not." Galatians 6:9
That may be a tough pill to swallow if you're going through trials. I understand that it is difficult to rise up in courage when facing mountains of obstacles. However, trusting in God will allow you to be victorious over your circumstance.
I want to offer you encouragement through whatever situation you may be facing. According to most that I encounter, the biggest struggle they are facing is financial. There are many issues that God's children are dealing with, but without a doubt money is a the top of a lot of lists. First I want to tell you that you CAN and will make it. You must believe that. I can only carry my brother so far. At some point you must learn to encourage yourself, pray for yourself, speak those things about yourself that God has spoken, and view your situation as God does. Begin daily to encourage yourself by speaking the powerful word of God and watch things begin to turn around.
"Death and life are in the power of the tongue; and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof." Proverbs 18:21
Friend, this means that you literally have to power to "speak" your desired outcome into existence. It is a matter of faith. If you're not sure where to begin, I have an example for you to illustrate how to begin turning your situation around. Start your day off by reading scripture aloud. I like to read daily the passage from Matthew 6:9
"Our Father in heaven, Hallowed be Your name. Your kingdom come. Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one. For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen."
Just by praying that aloud at the start of each day you are working wonders towards turning your situation around. How? You are acknowledging God as your source, exercising your trust in Him, asking him to provide for your needs, allowing Him to lead you, blocking the devil from reaching you, and gaining forgiveness! All that contained in one scripture. Amazing right!
As a follower of Christ, you have the authority to call upon the Lord's name. In Jesus' name cast down those stronghold oppressing you and command them to "Go!" They have no choice but to obey because there is all power in the name Jesus! Even the winds and seas obeyed the Lord. When you speak out to those strong holds using the word of God, and command them to move, they will indeed move. Take up your armor and weapon (the word) and slay those giants just as David slew Goliath. Begin to pray for the Lord to bless your finances and guide you on how to use the money wisely so that it pleases Him. Allowing God to take the steering wheel over your finances will only have a positive outcome. Don't forget to give cheerfully, so that God can bless you with more. Many times we struggle for money because we have "robbed" God by not paying our tithes and giving the Lord an offering out of our income. The Lord speaks sternly about this.
Malachi 3:8 "Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed me. But ye say, Wherein have we robbed thee? In tithes and offerings."
If you have been faithful and obedient with paying your tithes and offerings, but are still suffering financially, ease don't give up. Continue to do what is right and God will see you through as He promised.
"Many sorrows shall be to the wicked; But he who trusts in the Lord, mercy shall surround him." Psalms 32:10
"And those who know your name put their trust in you, for you, O lord, have not forsaken those who seek you." Psalms 9:10
Continue to trust in the Lord my friend. No matter if you're having problems financially, spiritually, emotionally, or any other way for that matter, trust in God. Remember to exercise the power of spoken word and speak into existence your wanted outcome. Encourage yourself daily with the word of God and you will be renewed. No crisis is too big or too great for God to handle if you simply trust in Him. You can always count on me to pray for you. Don't be afraid to lean on your brothers and sisters in Christ for support. Prayer is real and can change any situation. I hope that this word of faith has reached you, entered your spirit, and encouraged you to rise up victorious through your circumstance. As always, Truth is freedom, Knowledge is power!
