BE ENCOURAGED

There are moments in life that can shake us to our very core. -Relationships that never seem to come together. -Financial situations where the numbers just don’t add up.

-Health issues that burden us. -We appear happy on the outside, yet we lack any real sense of peace within.

The Role of Faith in Life’s Difficulties

Question: How does our faith truly help us to deal with the issues of life? Answer: Sometimes, God does not change the situation itself; instead, He changes us. This transformation enables us to approach and change the situation.

Our faith in what He has promised grows and strengthens as we follow Him. Jesus said, “Come follow me and I will make you…” This is an invitation to growth and trust.

Learning from Peter’s Example

Consider Peter, who said, “If it is you, let me come to you on the water.” Jesus responded, “Come,” and Peter stepped out of the boat. He walked on the water, sustained by the power of Jesus’ word. This demonstrates that when God calls you to do something, He will empower you to accomplish it.

Placing Faith in the Right Source

A common challenge is that we often develop our own ideas or start relationships, then ask God to bless them after the fact. Many things may be good ideas, but they are not necessarily God’s ideas. Placing our faith too much in people or in ourselves can lead to disappointment, and when that happens, doubt and fear can take hold. However, Jesus assures us, “I will never forsake you.” Even in God’s silence, He is speaking to us more loudly than we realize.

Encouragement in Times of Trouble

We must remember that God is greater than all our doubts and fears. Whatever God has led you to, He will lead you through. Be encouraged: the challenges we face are not greater than our faith. In fact, it is through these very challenges that our faith is tested and refined. Trials and tests come to reveal what is within us and to show how much we truly believe in and obey God’s word.

The Enduring Power of Faith

Jesus said, “I have prayed that your faith fails not.” He didn’t say your feelings won’t fail, but that your faith will not fail. This is where your peace is found: Christ has overcome the world, and as your Savior and Lord, He is within you. His presence will enable you to overcome the issues of this life.

God bless.