Experiencing Hardships

Well, what can I say? The unchanging truth is that Christians will experience hardships. Though a substantial part of ministry today emphasizes deliverance from troubles, you cannot experience deliverance except a situation that warrants it arises. After receiving the promise of descendants, God tells Abraham of the hardships that would come upon them.

And he said unto Abram, Know of a surety that thy seed shall be a stranger in a land that is not theirs, and shall serve them; and they shall afflict them four hundred years; And also that nation, whom they shall serve, will I judge: and afterward shall they come out with great substance. Gen 15:13-14 (KJV

God said that it was going to happen and nothing would change it (signified by “of a surety”). Christians have to understand that trials, tests, hardships will come. The Christian life if full of problematic situations (as some may very well know); however, the promise of trials comes with the promise of God’s deliverance.

Abraham’s descendants were destined to go into bondage, but they were also destined to come out by God’s power. On today, though trials and tests are there, understand that they come with an expiration date. You can rejoice that though you may sow in tears presently, you will reap in joy by the power of God.

Prayer of the Week:

 “I thank you for the truth that my problems come with an expiration date. I thank you that I will see your goodness in the land of the living. Amen.”

Hope in God

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      Growing up, I remember times when my mother would tell me she was going to do something. Once the promise came, I held on to it. I knew that if she said it, I could trust it because she came through on other promises.

       Though we may not always get what we want or things may not always go, as we would like for them, we can trust in God’s faithfulness and promises. Abraham receives a staggering promise that he would have a son. His response was not doubt, but faith.

And   he   brought  him  forth   abroad,  and said, Look now toward heaven, and tell the stars, if thou be able to number them:  and he said unto him, So shall thy seed be. And he believed in the Lord; and he counted it to him for righteousness. Gen 15:5-6 (KJV)

Abraham believed in the Lord.  The challenge upon Christians is to believe in the Lord through walking by faith daily. On today, what problems face you? What things are you waiting on from the Lord? No matter what they are, continue to believe in God. Renew your faith knowing that whatever God has promised, He is able to perform.

Prayer of the Week:

“I trust you on this day Lord. I am grateful that I can trust you and have complete faith in you. Thank you for all things. Amen.”

Ask What You Will

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Friends are an intricate part of one’s existence. And, those friends whom you can count on are treasures in one’s life. You know that if you ask them for anything that is proper, they will do their best to make it happen.

If we can have that level of trust in someone that is subject to life, why is it difficult to come to God in faith, knowing He will be there in the time of need? Abraham experienced God’s power after his initial call, consequently, he understood that he could ask God for the impossible – an heir.

 And Abram said, Lord GOD, what wilt thou give me, seeing I go childless, and the steward of my house is this Eliezer of Damascus? Gen 15:2 (KJV)

Since God comforted Abraham by reaffirming His faithfulness to him, Abraham then petitions God concerning offspring. What are you standing in need of at this time in your life? Regardless of what it is, you can trust that God will hear the very cry of your soul.

Though we do not always know the will of  God, we are not to be afraid to trust that God will hear us. He instructed us to pray, expecting to receive. If Abraham could make such an incredible request given his circumstances, we can really ask what we will and He will do it to glorify Himself.

Prayer of the Week:

 “I know that I can trust you God, you told me to ask, seek, and knock. Therefore, I come to you today with all of my fears and concerns, knowing you will answer me in due time. Amen.”

Comforted by the Creator

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In times of distress and need, a comforting word can make all the difference. Have you ever been burdened? Depressed? And, someone came with the right words? Can you vividly recall the impact that it had on your life? God came to Abraham with great words of comfort after the battle for Lot and the people of Sodom.

After these things the word of the Lord came unto Abram in a vision, saying, Fear not, Abram: I am thy shield, and thy exceeding great reward. Gen 15:1  (KJV)

Abraham receives comfort that God would be his reward and protection. Remember, Abraham would not take anything for his aid. However, God remembered his service and comforts Abraham.  Some reading this may feel as if they have given their all to the benefit of others and their lives seem to be stagnant and hard.

However, as God comforted Abraham, you are to receive comfort on this day knowing that God will be your reward and protection. Though things in your life have been delayed, they are definitely not denied. A time of blessing and reward is appointed for you, as it was for Abraham.

Prayer of the Week:

“Lord, life can be difficult and seem like there is no end to the difficulties. But I thank you that you will keep me and bless me at the proper time. Amen.” 

A Qualified Christian: The Christian Example

It should be the desire of every Christian to be a useful and productive servant of the Lord; that is, a worthy Christian. On any job, qualified individuals are sought to fill positions. We know that anyone that is qualified makes necessary adjustments and work hard to obtain the necessary skills.

The same is true of the Christian. We have to be willing to adjust and work towards being a qualified and productive servant. Jesus’ words to the disciples reveal to us that He would have it no other way.

Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men. Matt 5:13 (KJV)

The qualified Christian’s standard for thought, doctrine, and practice is the Word of God. The qualified Christian knows that life has to be governed by the eternal Word of God. Let this be your desire, hope, and plea that you will become and remain a qualified Christian.

Prayer of the Week:

“Lord, give me grace, peace, and strength to become a qualified Christian. Amen.”

Deliver Me from Me: Facing the enemy of self

It is interesting to note that much external opposition exists to frustrate our walk and growth in Christ. However, there is an enemy that we must all face; that is, the enemy of self. We may be able to escape people, circumstances, and situations, but where can you run from yourself. Every Christian has to come to a place where they ask God to deliver them from themselves.

Keep back thy servant also from presumptuous sins; let them not have dominion over me: then shall I be upright, and I shall be innocent from the great transgression. Psalms 19:13 (KJV)

David prayed that God would keep him from personal sins and weaknesses; that the things that he may want to do would not have dominion over him. This is to be our prayer. Once we have received forgiveness and freedom in Christ, we are not to allow the desires of the flesh to rule us.

When we ask God to deliver us from ourselves, we set ourselves us for victory in every area of our lives. Let your prayer be this day, “Deliver Me from Me.”

Prayer of the Weel:

 “I thank you for the truth that your power to deliver extends to my internal struggles with self. I praise you for present and future freedom. Amen.”

God is Just: Abraham pleads for Lot

Ever wonder why God allows certain things? Have you ever struggled with some of the biblical accounts of God’s judgment and justice? Some think that the righteous judgment of God is unfair and arbitrary.

However, as Christians, we must trust in the goodness and justice of God. Abraham had to face his conceptions of God’s justice when God revealed His plans to judge Sodom and Gomorrah.

And Abraham drew near, and said, Wilt thou also destroy the righteous with the wicked? Shall not the Judge of all the earth do right? Gen 18:23, 25b (KJV)

After hearing of God’s plans, Abraham asks God, in essence, are you right in doing this? He knew that Lot and his family were in those cities. However, we know that God was just in His decision by further reading of this story. Now, let us look at ourselves. God does allow things in our lives to happen that seem unfair.

We can look at the numerous ills of the world and think how these things could be if He is good and just. On today, trust that God cannot operate in unrighteousness.

Trust that His ways are just. He will do what is best for us even if it does not always feel good to us. You may not understand all things, but trust in the goodness of the One that has offered such a great salvation in Christ.

Prayer of the Week:

“Lord, give me grace, peace, and strength to accept the unfavorable events of this life. I will

trust in your character. Amen.”

Comforted by the Creator

In times of distress and need, a comforting word can make all the difference. Have you ever been burdened? Depressed? And, someone came with the right words? Can you vividly recall the impact that it had on your life? God came to Abraham with great words of comfort after the battle for Lot and the people of Sodom.

After these things the word of the Lord came unto Abram in a vision, saying, Fear not, Abram: I am thy shield, and thy exceeding great reward. Gen 15:1  (KJV)

Abraham receives comfort that God would be his reward and protection. Remember, Abraham would not take anything for his aid. However, God remembered his service and comforts Abraham.  Some reading this may feel as if they have given their all  to  the  benefit of others and their lives seem to be stagnant and hard.

However, as God comforted Abraham, you are to receive comfort on this day knowing that God will be your reward and protection. Though things in your life have been delayed, they are definitely not denied. A time of blessing and reward is appointed for you, as it was for Abraham.

Prayer of the Week:

“Lord, life can be difficult and seem like there is no end to the difficulties. But I thank you that you will keep me and bless me at the proper time. Amen.”

Do It God’s Way

To succeed is the goal of many. The quest for success and material abundance has sabotaged the spiritual life of many. The king of Sodom offered Abraham great wealth for his previous help. However, Abraham refused.

And Abram said to the king of Sodom, I have lift up mine hand unto the Lord, the most high God, the possessor of heaven and earth, That I will not take from a thread even to a shoe latchet, and that I will not take any thing that is thine, lest thou shouldest say, I have made Abram rich. Gen 14:22-23 (KJV)

Abraham chose to be successful God’s way. He knew that if he received from the king of Sodom, they would take credit for Abraham’s wealth.

As Christians, are we willing to do things God’s way, that Christ is honored? Many opportunities can come to us, but opportunities do not always come with God’s endorsement. This is where we must be humble and open to God’s direction.

            Doing things God’s way or according to His will may delay success and wealth, but it will never prevent it. On today, examine your life. Make sure your quest for personal success and prosperity is according to God’s will. In doing so, you will preserve your relationship with Him as you increase in this life.

Prayer of the Week:

“Lord, help me to trust you with success in my life. I know you have my best interest in mind. I submit my ways unto you that I may prosper. Amen”

Honoring God

 Money is something that almost every civilization uses today as currency. Without it, one cannot acquire the things necessary to maintain a decent habitation. Because of this, the call to give money, even in the religious setting, becomes a challenge; especially, when we have labored hard to earn it. After Abraham fought the battle, freeing Lot and the people of Sodom, he was challenged with the responsibility to honor God for the victory.

And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him tithes of all. Gen 14:20 (KJV)

Abraham understood that God had given him the victory. Though he would not be paid for what he had done, he still did receive for his men and their labor. From this, Abraham not only honored God through giving Him praise, but also gave tithes of his substance.

Christians have to remember to honor God with worship and with giving of their time, energy, effort, and substance (which includes finances). Remember, God gives us strength to acquire so that we can live and be a blessing to the Church. This is how He is honored.

On today, evaluate your willingness to give in honor of God. Make an effort to do better (if necessary). God gave us His best (in Christ) and we have the responsibility to return to Him the best out of our substance.

Prayer of the Week:

“I thank you for your daily provision and protection. I make a new commitment to honor you in my giving.

Bearing Others’ Burdens: Abraham fights for Lot

Do you know someone who brings trouble upon himself or herself? In the end, others have to come to their rescue and bail them out. Dealing with these individuals can be draining, even after you have warned them and they rejected good counsel. However, as Christians, we have to remain willing to help others even when they make unwise decisions. Abraham had to go and fight for Lot after he made the bad choice to live in Sodom.

And when Abram heard that his brother was taken captive, he armed his trained servants, born in his own house, three hundred and eighteen, and pursued them unto Dan. Gen 14:14 (KJV)

Lot was taken captive and Abraham had to gather a force to free him. There are individuals in our lives that may seem to go through the same things over  and  over  again. Yet,  God  has allowed it so that we can be demonstrators of His love and mercy.

Paul reminded the Galatians that they were  to do good unto all men. In addition, special consideration was to be given to those who are believers (Galatians 6:10). Do not hold back bearing others’ burdens, even if they are a burden to themselves. In doing so, we fulfill the law of Christ.

Prayer of the Week:

“I remember all that Christ did for me on today. I thank you he bore my transgressions and sins. On this day, I ask that you help me to bear others’ burdens in light of your goodness towards me. Amen”

Letting Go: Abraham pleads for Ishmael

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Friends, family, and acquaintances are important to our lives. We live in a world where we must interact and be interdependent upon others for love, support, and relationship. However, some individuals in our lives may prove to be useful only at certain times in our lives. It does not mean that there is a problem; however, God may want to bring others into our lives for continual growth and success in Him.

Abraham had to learn the reality of this truth. Because God’s promise was upon Sarah and Isaac, he would eventually have to let go of Ishmael that God’s promises to him would be established. However, Abraham protested.

And Abraham said unto God, O that Ishmael might live before thee! Gen 17:18 (KJV)

Abraham loved Ishmael, but God’s covenant would be with Isaac. Abraham pleaded with God for Ishmael. On today, what people are in your life that you know that they will not be able to be with you always? Are you willing to let them go {not because you hate them or any problem exists} for the sake of continual growth and success in Christ?

They may be longtime friends and family members. It does not mean that there is no communication and fellowship, but their influence in your life has to be limited that God may bring to you all that He has for you. This may be a difficult task, but in the end, everyone will prosper. Later on, in this story, discover that God blessed Ishmael, though he had to leave his father.

Prayer of the Week:

 “I know that I can trust you God, you know what is best for me and who is good for me. Help me to do what is necessary to please you. Amen.”

Separated for the Set-up

Separation is a necessary part of life. Many fight against it, even to their own hurt. Some stay in destructive relationships for fear of being alone. Others will not separate because of the “comfort” of familiarity. However, as a Christian, the challenge to separate from people, places, and things (in order to progress) is there.

Abraham had to make the decision to separate from Lot. In Volume I, we discussed how Abraham and Lot entered into conflict. Rather than stay in a situation where this could reoccur, Abraham gave Lot his pick of the land for peaceful separation.

And the Lord said unto Abram, after that Lot was separated from him, Lift up now thine eyes, and look from the place where thou art northward, and southward, and eastward, and westward: For all the land which thou seest, to thee will I give it, and to thy seed for ever. Gen 13:14-15 (KJV)

After the separation, God appears to Abraham and gives him a blessing of promise. We discover that his separation was a set-up to receive from God. On today, what people, places, and things do you need to give up and separate yourself from? Abraham was willing to separate from Lot and he received a blessing. Who knows? Some things you may desire of God may be released if you separate from known negative influences. Make the necessary changes and separations; it will set you up for a blessing.

Prayer of the Week:

“Lord, I thank you that your thoughts for me are for good. Give me the strength to do what is necessary to receive all that you have for me. Thank you now for all things that will come for my benefit. Amen.” 

Handling Conflicts

Do you know someone who loves controversy and conflict? Regardless of the situation, there is a problem. They do not want peace, but conflict. As Christians we are instructed to live in peace with all men according to our best efforts. Yet, when we are offended and treated unjustly, do we still want peace or seek for personal vindication.

Abraham faced conflict with Lot (his nephew); there servants were at odds. However, we discover that Abraham sought for peace; he did not perpetuate the problem.

And Abram said unto Lot, Let there be no strife, I pray thee, between me and thee, and between my herdmen and thy herdmen; for we be brethren. Gen 13:8 (KJV)

Since Abraham was the elder in this situation, he could have handled the conflict in a totalitarian manner. However, he recognized that Lot was family and there was a peaceable solution.

As a Christian, how do you handle conflicts at home and those that happen at church? You must understand that conflicts will arise, especially in the church. Yet, remember that they are your brothers and sisters in Christ. You should seek for peace and not selfish vindication.

In the end, all things must be done to honor Christ who has saved you. Your encounters in the church should not contribute to the disunity or disharmony of the fellowship.

Prayer of the Week:

“Lord, grant me grace, when conflicts arise. Help me to honor you as I face conflicts. Let your will always be done. Amen.”

Back to Basics: Abraham returns to Bethel

Every few years, states require drivers to have their licenses renewed. Drivers have to take tests to establish that they still know the basic road signs and rules. It serves as a reminder to drivers.

Experienced drivers are not exempt. They, too, must review foundational information to maintain their driving privileges. After Abraham’s initial call and his ordeal in Egypt, he returned to the place where God spoke to him.

And he went on his journeys from the south even to Bethel, unto the place where his tent had been at the beginning, between Bethel and Hai; Unto the place of the altar, which he had made there at the first: and there Abram called on the name of the Lord. Gen 13:3-4 (KJV)

In   the   Christian   life,  times  come  where  we must return to the basics. Like drivers on the road, we must review and revisit foundational truths of the Bible and recognize if we are still following them.

Like Abraham, we need to consider our initial commitment to the Lord and see if we are true to it. Abraham went through some incredible situations; afterwards, he returned to the place where God spoke to him. This served to renew his faith and trust. Life  can  sometimes  take  you  off  course. Take time to renew and revive your faith and walk with God through introspection and prayer.

Prayer of the Week:

 I ask for a renewal on today. I remember how you have blessed me. I will recall to mind your word. Help me to stay on the right path. Amen.”

Distractions, Distractions, Distractions: Don’t Turn to the Left or Right

One enemy of the Christian life and experience is distraction. Since distractions come in numerous forms, it is easy to become entrapped by them. Even serving God can become a distraction when He is not the focus on your daily life. This is what happened to Martha.

But Martha was cumbered about much serving, and came to him, and said, Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me. And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things. Luke 10:40-41 (KJV)

Rather than spend time in Christ’s presence, she became distracted with trying to serve Him. Today’s inspiration is a brief reminder to warn you against distractions. We have to deal with life and all of its toils, but life should not deter you from having peace in Christ.

Distractions abound, tasks are many, concerns multiply, but in the middle of all of these, your cry should be, “Lord, help me to overcome these distractions, distractions, distractions!”

Prayer of the Week:
“Lord, I thank you for your mercy, goodness, kindness, and grace. On today, I commit myself to doing that which pleases you in my daily life. I am grateful for your help and strength to overcome external and internal challenges. Amen.”

Obeying the Situation

Weather conditions usually dictate our daily wardrobe choices. If it is hot, we usually wear clothes that are light and airy. When it is rainy, raincoats and umbrellas accessorize one’s outfit. If it is cold, jackets, sweaters, boots, etc. usually appear. The weather condition demands a response.

As Christians, we have to learn to respond to the different “weather” conditions of our Christian walk. Abraham lied to Pharaoh, caused Sarah to be taken, brought plagues upon Pharaoh, and now, Pharaoh wanted him out of Egypt.

And Pharaoh commanded his men concerning him: and they sent him away, and his wife, and all that he had. Gen 12:20 (KJV)

Abraham had to obey Pharaoh’s request to depart. Think about situations in your life that demand a response. You have to be willing to depart from relationships that are unfruitful; give up habits that are self-destructive; and pursue Christ when you recognize spiritual decline.

You have to obey the situations that confront you. Though situations arise where we do not know what to do, oftentimes, what we need to do is right before us if we pay attention.

Prayer of the Week:

 “I come before you on today Lord asking for grace to do what I know to do is right. Help me to have the proper response to the situations that are in my life. I thank you now. Amen.”

God will Fight for You

 

Growing up, my older brother would always fight for me. If anyone ever troubled me or threatened me, he would step in to defend me. He would do it without question. He did not ask about what happened or how did the situation arise. If he was there and saw trouble, he got involved.

Abraham was in Egypt and allowed Pharaoh to take his wife because of his fears. Since God’s promise was upon Abraham and Sarah, we see His intervention  in a situation caused by Abraham and Sarah’s bad decision.

And the Lord plagued Pharaoh and his house with great plagues because of Sarai Abram's wife. Gen 12:17 (KJV)

Abraham was clearly wrong, but God intervened on his behalf. He protected Abraham from the consequences of his actions. He also protected Sarah from being violated by Pharaoh. Some are facing situations that they, in effect, have caused themselves.

Do not lose faith and hope that God will be there for you. Just know that He is gracious and longsuffering and gets joy in showing mercy. God will fight for you.

Prayer of the Week:

“I trust you on this day Lord that you will intervene on my behalf. I stand in faith on your love and grace. Thank you for all things. Amen.” 

Don’t Go Back Into Egypt: Don’t Return into Bondage

When reading the Old Testament account of the nation of Israel in the wilderness, one discovers that they continually cried that they wanted to return to Egypt. After God showed them His power, mercy, and love when he delivered them from the hand of the Egyptians, they still would not trust Him completely to fulfill His promise to them.

And to whom sware he that they should not enter into his rest, but to them that believed not? So we see that they could not enter in because of unbelief. Heb 3:18-19  (KJV)

Sometimes in reading this story, we may find it odd that they would be like that in spite of all the miracles God showed them while they were in Egypt. But how many of us have wavered in our commitment to Christ, desiring to go back to old sins, habits, and people that we originally cried out to God to deliver us from.

On today, I want to encourage Christians everywhere to not go back to “Egypt.” Whatever is Egypt in your life, do not return to it. God is faithful. He will still help you, heal you, forgive you, and be with you. Continue to walk with Him in spite of opposition and even in spite of yourself, knowing He knows all things and will aid you in the time of trouble. Do not go back into Egypt.

Prayer of the Week:

“Lord, grant me grace to stand with contentment as I wait upon you. You will be faithful unto the end. Amen.”

The Great “I AM”: He is the Self-Existent One

 

    The children of Israel were in trouble. The Egyptians had put them under subjection. What began as a blessing, now had become bondage. Their entrance into Egypt saved Jacob and his family, but now they were under hard task masters who did not want the nation to grow and prosper. But God, who is faithful, heard the cries of His people and revealed Himself to Moses.

And God said unto Moses, I AM THAT I AM: and he said, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, I AM hath sent me unto you. Ex 3:14 (KJV)

God called Himself the “I AM.” This denoted that whatever the children of Israel could need, He would be that to them. On today, every Christian should be confident that the same God who revealed Himself to Moses, revealed Himself in Christ.

If we have received Christ, we have an audience and connection to the “I Am” who is great. Be confident knowing that you are not alone because the Great “I AM” is there.

Prayer of the Week:

 Lord, I thank you for your great love revealed in Christ. I appreciate the gift of salvation. Amen.”