CONCERT OF PRAYER

Pray Week 697

“Certainty”

John 16:33 (ESV) I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”
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A business associate once commented that ‘God does not call ahead for approval’. Imagine a telephone call from God: ‘Hello, Ron. God here. The reason I am calling is to run something by you to get your approval first before I proceed. You see, I plan to allow some trials and trouble to enter your life that will seem pretty difficult for you, but trust me, I will be with you the whole time and it will be for your good.’ Given the option, many of us would opt out of tribulation. However, of this we can be certain: that God’s plans are the best for us and that His grace is sufficient for the day.

For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans for wholeness and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope. – Jeremiah 29:11

The word translated ‘tribulation’ in our reference Scripture is also translated as ‘trouble’ and has the meaning of being squeezed under pressure. It should come as no surprise to us that in this world we will have trouble. God’s Word tells us plainly to expect it. The trend in some circles to preach and teach only prosperity doctrine does the church a disservice. It is only in the undiluted full gospel of God’s Word that truth is found. The pressures of this life will be experienced by believers as well as non-believers. We can be certain of it.

The difference lies in our response to the pressure and tribulation. We can become better or we can become bitter. The recent economic crisis and global disasters such as the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico are bringing enormous pressures upon people, Christian and non-Christian alike. Some people whose hope is wrapped up in this world have taken their lives in utter despair. Others have become bitter and cynical and are angry enough to turn way from God at a time when they need to be running to Him.

What response is manifested when you are squeezed under pressure? Do we see the ugly side of your character or do we see the character of Jesus Christ? When squeezed do you lash out at others with a hair-trigger temper or do you exhibit the peace that surpasses all understanding? When squeezed do you respond with despair and deep depression seeking to end or numb the pain or do you press in to get a grip on God for His grace, peace, strength and hope?

Does your character exhibit the certainty of knowledge that all things work together for good for those who love God? Can you praise Him for the squeezing pressure that God allows to shape your character and make you better? Can you trust the certainty of His Word that nothing can separate you from His love?

For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. – Romans 8:38

God comforts us in our times of tribulation so that we may be able to comfort others in similar situations. (2 Cor 1:4) If we become bitter we can be of no comfort to others. However, with the proper spiritual mindset, tribulations can make us better and prepare us for ministry to others in His grace and power. Of this we can be certain.

Close in prayer, thanksgiving & rededication of your work to the glory of God