Troublesome Times
Romans 5: 1-5 Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: By whom also we have access by faith into his grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; And patience, experience; and experience hope: And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.
- In the midst of troubles, struggles, hardship, oppression, and afflictions, we are to praise God through it all. We are not praising God for the troubles. We are acknowledging that we are focusing on Him, because He is our Jehovah Jireh, God our Provider. He can and will show us the way out of any and every situation, IF we ask and trust Him.
- Murmuring and complaining about situations will delay or totally stop God from moving on our behalf – even if we pray and fast for His help. Instead of the prayers being answered, backlashes answer.
- We are to be patient (persevere) – with praises, prayers, gratitude, and faith. It will make us stronger, developing our character; which defines us; which develop us into who we really are. Are we defined as:
- Murmurers and complaining saints? Or
- Totally ungrateful saints? Or
- Saints of faith?
- Our characters are being developed through faith, then hope. Hope in God – all of His promises, His word – written, prophetic, wisdom, knowledge, revelation, or through dreams – gives us hope
- However, hope in God does not bring shame because “the love of God has been poured out in our heart by the Holy Ghost who was give to us” v. 5. We must receive the Holy Spirit in order for the love of God to be in our hearts. The love of God brings us hope. Where there is no hope, connect with the love of God. There is no situation too hard for God to turnaround in our lives. Jesus said, Have faith in God – Mark 11:22. Amen!
Prayer
Father in the might name of Jesus, I come to You with thanksgiving and praise. I confess sins of murmuring and complaining, that bring backlashes. I confess sins of not being thankful for what I do have and for not praising You as I should. Lord, empower me with the spirit of gratitude. Give me divine turnarounds in every situation and tribulation in my life. I ask You to strengthen me as I persevere during troublesome times. I allow You to develop my character as You please. Father, I receive the Holy Spirit, my Comforter. I ask You to baptize me with the spirit of love. Father, thank You for grace to persevere, and for renewing my hope in You. Amen!