Monday, September 24, 2018

Let It Go

I can sing every word to this song, but singing it and doing it are two completely different things.  One of the hardest things I have had to learn to do is let things go - everything - and give it to God.  You see, we know God can do anything, but we tend to only want Him to do what we want.

Have you ever been in a tough, uncomfortable situation and completely given it over to God - that no matter what happens, you are okay because you know it is God's will?

"Give your burdens to the Lord and He will take care of you."  Psalm 55:22

All Christians know to do this, but doing it is tricky.  You see, when you give it all to God, that means you have to completely let it go.  You shouldn't think about it anymore, worry about it, or concern yourself any longer.  Truly giving it to God means every time a negative thought or worry pops in your head, you simply say "I'm not worrying about this.  God has it and His will will be done".

The hardest part is when we have to accept that His will may be an uncomfortable situation.  For example, maybe you have been diagnosed with an illness or maybe you have a situation where you can't do something you used to be able to do.  Perhaps you are struggling in a relationship or a job.  Whatever it is, no exceptions, give it to God 100% and He will take care of you.  This doesn't mean He will remove it, it doesn't mean you won't be uncomfortable, but it means you need to get up everyday with joy in your heart and with a positive attitude because you know that your Father has got you.  And what a witness you will be when you are smiling through your situation and when you don't complain even though in the world's eyes you have every reason too!

Have a blessed week!

Friday, September 14, 2018

Finding Joy

I am currently studying the book of Ecclesiastes and it is so amazing everything that I have learned.  If you want to hear the studies, you can check out our podcast and listen to chapters 1-3 as of today and we will be adding a new chapter each week until we finish.

But today I wanted to share something truly amazing that I believe will help so many of you.  Did you know that God expects us to have joy in all circumstances?  Even when things aren't going our way.  Well, it's true.  And this is really hard.  When life is beating on you, it can be a great challenge to keep your joy.  But in Ecclesiastes 3:12-13, it says this very thing.  Basically, God's people will find meaning and joy in life when they cheerfully accept it from the hand of God.

What are you going through today?  Are you "cheerfully accepting it from the hand of God" or are you losing hope, downtrodden, and just plain miserable?  Jesus came that we may have and enjoy everyday life (John 10:10 AMP).  God guides us in multiple places in His word that if we truly believe in Him, we can get through anything with joy and praise.  We can accept what is happening and know that it is for God's glory and our good.

I challenge you today to pray this prayer - "God, I'm not okay with what I am going through, but I am going to trust you 100%.  I trust that you are going to take this situation and use it for your glory.  God, help me to cheerfully accept my situation because without you, it is impossible.  I give it all to you God.  Give me the strength and wisdom to find and keep my joy in this challenging situation.  In Jesus's name I pray, Amen!"

God loves you and He has not forsaken you.  There is a reason you are going through what He is allowing.  Trust Him and know that whatever the reason is, it is for your good and the good of His message.  We pray over you today.  We love you and pray that you have a blessed week, no matter your circumstances.  Find your joy through Jesus!