Peace in the Storm
So often our view of God and His love can be clouded by our experiences, pain, anger or disappointment. We become easily moved or even controlled by our feelings and we begin to trust our circumstances and emotions more than what God says in His Word. It's easy to feel separated from Him during those seasons, as our focus is turned inward instead of upward. Those are the times we must press through the desire to wallow in fear and self pity and begin to give God a sacrifice of praise. No matter what our current situation may look like, there are always reasons to worship and honor our Creator. The fact is, you can not move in faith until He becomes the center of your focus. As you begin to look intently upon Jesus, your peace will be restored and you will be able to give Him your broken pieces to repair and renew.
Every answered prayer... every victory I've ever experienced was a product of worshipping Jesus in the trial. Giving Him praise as the enemy is nipping at our heels. It's being thankful before the deliverance is manifested. It's believing in His power and willingness to deliver us even against all natural odds. It's resting in His strong arms when all hell is breaking out against us.... believing that He is fighting for us.
The cool thing is, even while your waiting... in the midst of the raging storm... before anything has changed... you can experience His calming effects within your soul. Pray and remind yourself, as I have to do so often, to focus on Jesus and His promises and He will comfort and deliver you.
Exodus 14:14 (NLT) The Lord himself will fight for you. Just stay calm.
Psalm 50:14-15 (NKJV) Offer to God thanksgiving, and pay your vows to the Most High. Call upon Me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall glorify Me.”
Mark 10:27 (NLT) Jesus looked at them intently and said,“Humanly speaking, it is impossible. But not with God. Everything is possible with God.”
Jeremiah 17:14 (MSG) God, pick up the pieces. Put me back together again. You are my praise!
Philippines 4:6-7 (NKJV) Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
