We all face problems in life. Some may be small mole hills, others may be huge mountains, but they all are significant in some way. Do you ever feel like a ship being tossed by the mighty waves in the middle of a stormy sea? Back and forth you float without any real direction, just trying to get to the shore? Without a compass, making it to shore is really hard to do. I believe Jesus wants you to know today that He wants to be your compass, your True North, your focal point so that he can lead you out of these rough waters. When you are physically tired, emotionally exhausted, or spiritually drained, He wants to see you through it. He wants to be in the boat with you.
Life is hard. Running your own business is hard. Most days I don't even know what is going on! But the Bible says to be on guard, don't let your guard down, don't you dare give up! Remember, the enemy (satan) is always looking to destroy you and try to overcome you. Don't give him any ammo to work with. Don't leave a door open where he can sneak in and take over your life, your thought life. The thing is, we don't ever reach a place where we never have to fight. The good news is, it's not just our fight. When you have Jesus on your side, He will not only be with you in the struggle, but He will go before you and fight on your behalf. I know that that's what I want, what I need-someone to help fight for.
I read the where the apostle Paul says this, "Let us not grow weary, or as another translation says, "do not lose heart." He's saying,"Don't quit. Keep fighting."
I think of the words of Isaiah, "Fear not, for I have redeemed you."I have called you by your name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you, and through the rivers, they will not overwhelm you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned or scorched, nor will the flame kindle upon you." Isaiah 43:1-2).
This is God's promise to us. He never promised us that popping a 'Christian happy pill" would make us all happy, problem-free, and all the hard stuff go away. I don't think it says that anywhere in the Bible. It does say, in many different areas of His word, that He will be with you in the hardships, during the struggle, and through the storm. He wants you to know that you are not alone and when you are in His care, he will provide you with the strength and perseverance to get to the other side.
So Friends, put one foot in front of the other, you are stronger than you think, and you are going to be okay!
Prayer: Dear Lord, You know challenges will get in our way, the waves of distractions will come, and we will find ourselves in the storm, but we want to run this race and finish strong. I believe you will bring peace, direction, and perseverance as we fix our eyes on You. Thank you that you are our True North when we don't know what direction to go. Thank you that You are in the boat with us.
TI Tip: Get a cheap spiral notebook from the Dollar Store and start writing down God's promises. Write out scripture and meditate on them for a few minutes every day. Become so familiar with them that they are written on your heart. When you want to give up, recite these promises to yourself.
2 Chronicles 15:7: But as for you, be strong and do not give up, for your work will be rewarded."
Luke 18:1," ..always pray and not give up.."
John 16:33,' I have told you these things so that you may have peace. In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."
Joshua 1:9,"Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go."
1 Corinthians 16:13," Be on guard, stand firm in the faith; be courageous, be strong."
