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There are many people in this world that wish they would never go through
any trials or tribulations and wish life was just a breeze and a delight.
Thankfully, God in His infinite wisdom knows that for us to have character
and development in life, we must go through certain situations to be
strengthened and equipped to continue through life in a successful way just
as God wishes. If you are going through tough times in life, be encouraged
and know that God is simply strengthening and equipping you for something
far greater than these temporary pains that are necessary for your growth
and development.
I hope you are encouraged by today's message.
THE REEF
Don't worry if you have problems!
Which is easy to say until you are in the midst of a really big one, I
know. But the only people I am aware of who don't have troubles are
gathered in little neighborhoods. Most communities have at least one. We
call them cemeteries. If you're breathing, you have difficulties. It's the
way of life. And believe it or not, most of your problems may actually be
good for you! Let me explain.
Maybe you have seen the Great Barrier Reef, stretching some 1,800 miles
from New Guinea to Australia. Tour guides regularly take visitors to view
the reef.
On one tour, the guide was asked an interesting question. "I notice that
the lagoon side of the reef looks pale and lifeless, while the ocean side
is vibrant and colorful," a traveler observed. "Why is this?"
The guide gave an interesting answer: "The coral around the lagoon side is
in still water, with no challenge for its survival. It dies early. The
coral on the ocean side is constantly being tested by wind, waves, storms
-- surges of power. It has to fight for survival every day of its life. As
it is challenged and tested, it changes and adapts. It grows healthy. It
grows strong. And it reproduces." Then he added this telling note: "That's
the way it is with every living organism."
That is how it is with people! Challenged and tested, we come alive! Like
coral pounded by the sea, we grow. Physical demands can cause us to grow
stronger. Mental and emotional stress can produce tough-mindedness and
resiliency. Spiritual testing can produce strength of character and faithfulness.
So, you have problems -- no problem! Just tell yourself, "There I grow again!"
Author Unknown
Read and meditate on these scriptures:
James 1:2-5 "Dear brothers and sisters, whenever trouble comes your way,
let it be an opportunity for joy. For when your faith is tested, your
endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance
is fully developed, you will be strong in character and ready for anything.
If you need wisdom-if you want to know what God wants you to do-ask Him,
and He will gladly tell you. He will not resent your asking."
Proverbs 3:5-8 "Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on
your own understanding. Seek His will in all you do, and He will direct
your paths. Don't be impressed with your own wisdom. Instead, fear the
Lord and turn your back on evil. Then you will gain renewed health and
vitality."
Psalm 90:12-16 "Teach us to make the most of our time, so that we may grow
in wisdom. O Lord, come back to us! How long will you delay? Take pity on
your servants! Satisfy us in the morning with your unfailing love, so we
may sing for Joy to the end of our lives. Give us gladness in proportion
to our former misery! Replace the evil years with good. Let us see your
miracles again; let our children see your glory at work."
Psalm 118:5-9 "In my distress I prayed to the Lord, and the Lord answered
me and rescued me. The Lord is for me, so I will not be afraid. What can
mere mortals do to me? Yes, the Lord is for me; He will help me. I will
look in triumph at those who hate me. It is better to trust the Lord than
to put confidence in people. It is better to trust the Lord than to put
confidence in princes."
All scriptures can be found in the New Living Translation Bible.
Today's Selected Poem: NOT YET
Click here to read --- http://www.Godswork.org/enpoem179.htm
Today's Selected Testimony: THE PRAYER THAT SAVED MY HUSBAND
Click here to read --- http://www.Godswork.org/testimony104.htm
In Christ's Service,
Dwayne Savaya
Gods Work Ministry |
