Surviving Famines

In recent decades, global attention has been given to nations that suffer consistently with famine. Hunger induced through famine can make individuals do and say things they would never do under normal conditions. So, the question remains, how do you respond to famines in your life? -  Not famine in terms of food, but famines that come up in your personal life and in your life with God.

Have you experienced times when it seems that your prayers are not answered and God is not there? Or, times when it seems like you are in a spiritual drought? These famines occur in the Christian life. Abraham went into Egypt when a famine arose, which placed him in a compromising situation.

And there was a famine in the land: and Abram went down into Egypt to sojourn there;   for the famine was grievous in the land. Gen 12:10 (KJV)

While in Egypt, Abram and Sarah conspired to deceive Pharaoh. This resulted in placing Sarah in a compromising situation. During this time in your life, you may be experiencing famine and drought in your personal and spiritual life. Make sure you do not compromise your faith and integrity before God as Abraham did in Egypt. Understand that God knows all things and He will bless you and deliver you in due time. 

Prayer of the Week:

“Lord, help me during times of testing and famine in my life. Strengthen my faith and hope in you that I do not turn away from what is right. I thank you that you will do this. Amen.”

Altar of Acceptance

To commemorate important occasions, we take pictures, buy souvenirs, or even leave markings. This is done so that whenever any of these are seen, one can instantly remember  the event. How do you view your times with Christ?

Are there memorable events that have taken place that you want to always remember and cherish? After receiving the promise, Abraham built an altar to God in acceptance of His promise. In addition, it was to commemorate what had happened.

And the Lord appeared unto Abram, and said, Unto thy seed will I give this land: and there builded he an altar unto the Lord, who appeared unto him. Gen 12:7 (KJV)As 

Christians, we no longer build altars, but we should mark special times and occasions with Christ in acceptance and appreciation for what He has done. We can do this by writing down the experience, marking special events on calendars, or even writing a psalm to God.

Abraham built an altar in response to the promise; remember to build an “altar” to the Lord for His blessings and promises in your life.

Prayer of the Week

“Lord, I thank you for your blessings. On this day, I make special mention of your goodness and kindness. I am grateful for all things. Amen”

Focus On Christ: Looking Unto Jesus

 

Image by Arnie Bragg from Pixabay

It is interesting to note that many in the Church have a greater passion for what they can have, say, and do rather than for Christ. By this, I mean we will get upset and fight for liberties that do not mean much of anything.

We get upset if someone tells us we should not watch something, listen to particular things, or even wear certain things.

Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee. Isaiah 26:3 (KJV)

Though we are free  in Christ, many have allowed their freedom to become bondage to them. Many are vocal about what they CAN do but are silent about Christ and His work of salvation. We have to be careful that nothing  in this life stirs up passion in us more than Jesus Christ.

Today, consider your walk and think about what motivates you. Do you spend time trying to figure out what you can do and call yourself a Christian? Or do you spend more time trying to discover how you can live for Him and promote the truth of the Gospel? It’s time to focus on Christ.

Prayer of the Week:

 “I know that I can trust you God, your thoughts for me are good. Therefore, I come to you today with all of my fears, concerns, and hang-ups; knowing you will answer me in due time. Amen.”