HarvestInsider

Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.  1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

It is never fun to walk through difficult situations, but the Bible is clear that every test and trial is something that God is using in our lives to mold and shape us into the image of Christ.  Romans 8:28 says that “…in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”  This means that even in the darkness of difficulties, we can thank God and rejoice that He is doing what is best for us.

When troubles come our way, it is easy to allow our eyes to drift onto ourselves or onto our circumstances and to begin to feel sorry for ourselves, or wallow in self pity, yet the Disciple maintains an unwavering focus on God.  When a person has their focus locked on the Sovereign God, the troubles of this life always have a purpose and a plan.  They find that even in difficulties, they can rejoice with genuine gratitude to a God who is in control!

Do your prayers reveal that your eyes are on God or on your troubling circumstances?  Are your prayers filled with a confidence in God’s perfect will, or are you praying for a shortcut through your hardships?  If troubles surround you, “Rejoice”, “Pray”, and “Give Thanks”… God is in control!