In the face of adversity.

This one is quite challenging but God is good, and I trust in his strength I am able to apply this.

Are there areas where you feel God is not doing what you hoped for? Sometimes we can subconsciously develop the equation: God's commands + my obedience = only good results.

Ask Moses, he must have felt frustrated in Ex 5, it only seemed to make Israel's lives harder, after he was reluctantly obedient to God's call. 

It can be confusing when we feel that we have followed God's commands, either in general or specific, and the outcome is not what as we expected. 

In a sense this happened to me recently, when I decided to own up to my stupid actions that led me to lose my job. 

"All men make mistakes, but a good man yields when he knows his course is wrong, and repairs the evil. Sophocles"

I felt prompted to be honest and face the music as it were, this was what I felt the Lord was asking me to do, and many of my friends agreed it was the only biblical way to handle the situation. I still agree that it was, and is God's will, even taking that into account, I was dismissed and to some degree I am bearing the consequences of my error. 

Initially I hoped that this decision would produce results that were in my favour and God would bless my decisions and everything would work out well. I obviously regret the choices that led to my current situation, however I somehow believe that what was meant for evil will turn out for the good. 

In this tough time I am learning to trust God the Father at a more intimate level. Again it has not been easy, but I am pressing into his presence and keeping my eyes on Jesus; the author and finisher of my faith and seeking to abide, remain in Him and He in me, so that I can bear much good fruit.

When we are faced with situations like this, too easily we become despondent, and feel like we want to give up, especially where it was a good decision or in obedience to the word. 

However many in the bible were faced with situations like this, and did NOT give up, they pressed in, and instead of throwing in the towel, they  turned to God, honestly, sharing their frustrations and confusion and saw God's hand move in the end. Remember that most of the Apostles were martyred, so therefore following God's direction does not always lead to plain sailing. 

Even Jesus prayed that the cup would be removed from him if possible, but NOT his will but GOD'S WILL be done. 

Prayer does NOT guarantee that the outcome we would like will definitely happen. 

Are you disappointed with any outcomes where you thought things would turn out differently, or feel that you deserved a different outcome? 

Do you feel like giving up? 

Honestly share these thoughts with God your father. Don't give up, press in and lean into God all the more, take up your cross daily and follow him, his Will be done through you. 

If God did it for others he can do it for you. Just don't give up, having done all to stand, stand therefore.





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