ALLOWING GOD TO CARE FOR YOU

In times of tranquility and prosperity, we sometimes face the constant danger of turning away from God to pursue our own goals and desires. In those good times we must diligently guard our hearts by remembering that our peace and prosperity always gifts from Him.


When we are in the midst of trouble and pain, however, we more easily acknowledge our helplessness and dependence on God. But we may also ask hard questions about is love and power. In those times we may be tempted to doubt God or even abandon the faith. We must remember that no crisis is beyond God’s control [1Co 10:13] and that nothing can separate us from His love [Rom 8:35].

No one enjoys pain. We would all prefer that our lives be carefree with no hardships. When we go through tough times we experience a variety of emotions, but joy usually isn’t one of them. When trials come we become frustrated that things aren’t going the way we would like. We get angry at others… at God… or at ourselves. We may feel profound sadness. Often, when we are in the middle of a difficult situation, we feel totally helpless, even fearful.

According to the Gospel of James, we should “consider it pure joy” when we go through adversity. He urges us to see the positive, even in distressing times.

James 1:2-3: “My brothers, count it all joy when you fall into different kinds of temptations, knowing that the trying of your faith works patience.”

What could be good about trials? James says that when your faith is tested, you learn to rely on God. If you never experience difficulties, you won’t learn to trust God to the same degree as when you realize how much you need Him.

Tough times build endurance. They’re like exercise; it can bring discomfort, but it strengthens your body. Likewise, misfortune can be painful, but it can make you a stronger Christian. When God carries you through a dark period, you experience Him in a new dimension. You gain a fresh understanding of how much he loves you. Your faith is stronger, and you’re more prepared to trust Him next time. It isn’t that you enjoy suffering, but you can find joy in the knowledge that even your darkest moments God can bring about good things in your life and make you spiritually strong.

If things look gloomy for you right now, take heart. Don’t become bitter. Allow God this opportunity to care for you. Let Him show you the positive side. Let Him strengthen you. He alone can give you joy --- joy that no one or no circumstance can take away from you.

In good times or bad, it is always right to keep your eyes on God and trust in His wisdom. Be assured that no situation taxes His sovereign power.

WHAT DOES GOD WANT YOU TO DO?

If you watch people who are fulfilling God's purpose in their life, you will notice that their motivation is high. They have amazing endurance to overcome obstacles. They are always growing and learning. There's real joy in what they do.

It amazes other people how faithful Christians breeze through life --- in good time, and in bad times. Having a strong faith in God is a key that really lifts them up in life. And having defined their life's purpose in tune with God is the one thing that keeps them going.

There are actually many people who go through life without discovering God's purpose for their life. Life just goes on and on without you knowing it. And there's no despair or sadness in not realizing it at all. Yet, to miss out on your life's purpose is to miss out on why God created you.

Whether your job is in a church or in a business enterprise, we were all created with a purpose. Along with that purpose, should we discover it, are gifts from God that would guide us in living the life He planned for us. Yes, we were gifted and called by God. If only people could realize this they would enjoy a more blessed life and take their assignments from God seriously!

Here are some questions to help you find your life's assignment:

What are the "raw materials" available? God has given you a certain temperament and talents, and you have to honor your raw material.

What unlocks your compassion? It's quite amazing to realize that sometimes the problem that infuriates you most is the problem you were born to solve.

Why do I do this? There's a big difference between doing something because you believe God has called you to do it, versus doing what your parents, your friends or your ego wants you to do.

What are my limitations? Knowing what you're called to do often starts with discovering what you're not called to do. When you can accept your limitations, you're on the road to understanding your life's assignment. So let's be clear: you have an assignment. It has to do with what God hard-wired into you. You must seek it with an open mind. When people pretend to be something they're not, they live with a chronic sense of inadequacy and set themselves up for a lifetime of frustration. Don't do that. Be ruthlessly open to the truth about yourself. Your life's assignment is something you discover, not something you choose.

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