US columnist CAROL ROUND, in an article first published on ASSIST News Service, looks at what Scripture tells us of the promises of God…
Grove, Oklahoma, US
Via ASSIST News Service
“And because of His glory and excellence, He has given us great and precious promises. These are the promises that enable you to share His divine nature and escape the world’s corruption caused by human desires” – II Peter 1:4 (NLT).
How can we hold on to our faith in God when times are difficult? Doesn’t Scripture tell us to “give thanks in all things,” trusting God for our daily needs?
Losing our job, being diagnosed with a devastating illness, or facing other life changes can leave us questioning God. How can we be thankful? How can we trust Him during these trials?
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When we wrestle with our faith, remember we aren’t the first to do so, and we won’t be the last. Think of Abraham and Sarah, Moses, Job, Elijah, Gideon, King David, and even Jesus. His death was pending. But, in the Garden of Gethsemane, His humanity revealed itself, and He asked His Father if there were another way. There wasn’t. Jesus won His wrestling match for us.
No matter my state of mind or emotions, my faith is always renewed when I read Scripture. The Bible is filled with promises from our Creator God.
“No matter my state of mind or emotions, my faith is always renewed when I read Scripture. The Bible is filled with promises from our Creator God.”
One promise I stand on each day is Deuteronomy 31:8. “The Lord Himself goes before you and will be with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged” (NIV).
When I, in all my humanity, worry about the future, this Scripture is a reminder of God’s faithfulness. I know He will never leave my side. His peace settles around me like a warm blanket on a cold winter’s night.
“When peace comes, keep following His lead.” I don’t recall where I read or heard this quote, but it is now my screensaver. To me, it’s a reminder to let go, and let God be in control.
Philippians 4:7 reminds us of that peace. “And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (NIV).
Spending time in God’s Word daily provides reassurance about what’s happening in our lives and in this world. In John 16:33, Jesus tells His disciples, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
We serve a faithful God who promises to provide and deliver, always – in His timing. Scripture abounds with words of promise: freedom from addictions, deliverance from sin and evil, and provides for us financially.
God gives hope for lost and hurting family members and friends. He can help us overcome depression, save a marriage, bring healing, and restore our health. In all His wisdom, He can free us from fear and anxiety, and renew our strength.
Psalm 84:11 tells us “For the Lord God is our sun and our shield. He gives us grace and glory. The Lord will withhold no good thing from those who do what is right” (NLT).
When your life is turned upside down or you’re just out-of-sorts, mediate on the following Scriptures. Let His Word fill you with hope.
Exodus 14:14: “The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.”
Isaiah 40:31: “[b]ut those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”
Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
Joshua 1:9: “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
Philippians 4:19: “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.”
Psalm 23:4: “Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.”
Romans 8:28: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.”
Once you’ve memorised these Scriptures, see how many more you can discover to bring encouragement when life lets you down.
