Life’s trials firm up one’s faith

Remembering that God has authority over all things while we are in the battles of life can be very difficult.

Probably the last thing you think about as you suffer in a trial is that God is working all things out for your good.

When you are overwhelmed with problems, it can take all the strength you have to just barely whisper a prayer.

We read in 2 Timothy 3 that there will be terrible times in the last days.

Paul describes a time when people will become lovers of themselves and lovers of money.

He goes on to say that they will be lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God and have form of godliness but deny its power.

While sin has always been in this world, the extent of evil to which Paul is speaking is much greater.

Paul was warning of a time when self-love and greed would rule over this earth and the ways of God would be forgotten.

We are in that prophecy now.

Is there any wonder that this whole world is suffering financially, physically and under the devastation of earthquakes, floods and storms of every kind?

Wars plague the earth and weapons of mass destruction are available.

Both threaten life on earth.

It is evident that the rulers and powers of darkness on this earth have geared up efforts to unleash a force of wickedness to take down those who are unprepared.

Yet, despite all that is going on in this lost world, there is always hope for those who trust in the finished work of Christ.

No trial you face can ever rob you of the future he died to give you.

Unfortunately, when a crisis hits, many believers accept the lies of the enemy instead of holding on in faith.

The Apostle Paul tells us in Romans 12:12, “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.”

In every battle, you must be joyful, patient and faithful knowing without a doubt that God is not going to fail you.

You are not alone, and the power of Christ that resides in you is greater than the pain you are facing.

You have a living hope that reigns eternal.

Though we all grow weary at times, God knows how to rescue his people in times of need.

Christ has promised us his peace despite the trouble in our lives.

It is a peace that defies understanding knowing in your heart that God is orchestrating his divine will in everything you face.

Each heartache and trial is an opportunity for God to reveal more of himself to you as he strengthens your faith.

We read in 1 Peter 5:10, “And to the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.”

We aren’t always going to be in control of our circumstances.

There will be times when all we can do is surrender them to Christ and trust that he will work them out for our good.

It may be scary to wait in the deep water for Jesus to bring you to safety, but that is exactly what you must do.

It may seem like you are alone in the dark sea of trouble but God’s eye is always on you and you are never without his strength.

Whatever trial you face, don’t let your weariness cloud your judgment.

If you belong to Christ, legions of his angels surround you right at this moment.

There is neither a tear he does not see nor a broken heart he cannot mend.

You have been set apart and made ready for him.

While you wait in expectation of Christ, understand that your calling is secure.

As a child of the king, you have already been declared royalty.

Stand firm in your faith knowing that the army of the living God is with you.

Marianne Lordi attends Old North Church in Canfield.