God's Grace Saves Us from Ourselves

Every individual is subject to weaknesses in life, which can be the source of sorrow and regret. Internal conflict demands difficult choices that may leave you feeling frustrated and defeated in mind and spirit. That God does not promise us freedom from tests and temptations can be troubling. 

Abraham, the Old Testament patriarch, failed to successfully manage his internal impulses concerning his wife Sarah. The compulsion to please Sarah when she pressured him to have a child with her maidservant, rather than trusting in God’s promise, would affect his peace and well-being for the rest of his life.

Like us, Abraham failed at regulating his thoughts and behaviors. This does not mean God has abandoned us when we fail to self-regulate. Unavoidable trials and temptations can strengthen our confidence and faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. To realize God’s grace is sufficient to save us from defeat instills courage to press onward toward his purpose for us. 

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 [Christ’s] reply has been, “My grace is enough for you; for where there is weakness, my power is shown more completely.” Therefore I have cheerfully made up my mind to be proud of my weaknesses, because they mean a deeper experience of the power of Christ.

~2 Corinthians 12:9 Phillips – The New Testament in Modern English

Gifts from God ~ Hope and Faith

Sixteen months after Hurricane Harvey, recovery is still in process, maybe not so much from the physical aspect of the disaster, but from emotional stress caused by grief and uncertainty. We do our best to avoid trials and struggles by pretending or wishing they did not exist or promising to address the issue later.

 
    
             Even as we’re forced to face problems, God promises you hope for now and the future. It’s possible to rejoice when facing struggles by realizing God is present to help and sustain you. As you receive God’s gifts of FAITH and HOPE, be assured His provisions are adequate. God bless you with hope as you celebrate His gift of Christ Jesus. Merry Christmas! 

Becoming a Person of Faith

When Jacob left his home to escape the wrath of his brother Esau, his work habits would change dramatically though he would remain a manipulator. For twenty years he managed his father-in-law’s livestock. Now he was ready to make the six hundred-mile trek back home, but he expected to be rewarded for those twenty years of hard work.

As he prepared to leave, he planned to swindle his father-in-law and felt justified to do so. For twenty years he had developed the skill of breeding livestock and had used that skill for his benefit. He proposed to take every specifically colored animal with him back to his homeland as payment for his labor.

Jacob’s plan was to outwit his father-in-law, who had taken advantage of his management skills for twenty years. However, God had placed Jacob in a position where he would be manipulated for someone else's benefit. God’s purpose for Jacob was for him to change, to grow and become a man of faith so he could be a true blessing to others.

Turning Points for New Beginnings - Part 1

My grandfather was a restless soul who periodically would sell his farming equipment and seek out new exploits. He believed strongly in new beginnings. Starting over for him was more than a change of atmosphere. His expectations for a better life were highlighted by faith in God to give him a meaningful purpose for his existence.

John Wesley, founder of the Methodist church, served as a missionary in Georgia from 1735 to 1738. His purpose was to convert the Indians and save his own soul. Returning to England as a failure, he received Christ Jesus by faith on May 24, 1738. His purpose for life was changed. He preached salvation by faith in Jesus Christ for the next fifty years.

This example of a new beginning illustrates God’s desire for everyone. God provided John Wesley with a lifeline to insight, the ability to see God’s truth, which enabled Wesley to rise up from failure and despair to find purpose that endured for a lifetime. Could this be what God has placed before you at this very moment? 

Finding God's Purpose in Difficult Times - Part 2

A nation's moral and spiritual values seem to ebb and flow with the character of its leaders. Great Britain evolved into a great nation during the nineteenth century because of innate inventiveness, which was the moving force behind its manufacturing industry. Naval supremacy gave Britain a political edge in the affairs of the world during that century.

However these points of power did not define Britain's total character. Personal values derived from a strong Christian faith defined their integrity, as hard work was a benchmark for success. These character strengths gave rise to a concern for the welfare of mankind. During World War II, their faith and trust in God got them through the dark days of war.

Personal crisis eventually will visit everyone. Surviving a crisis demands change in the arrangement of priorities. Coming back to God by giving Christ Jesus first place in your life is required for making healthy choices. Surviving the consequences of a crisis takes endurance and a resilience that faith in God provides. Faith is God's gift to you.