Tag: Trouble

Troubled Treasure

Proverbs 15:16, 16:8

We in the United States, live in a society where greed is prominent. The more men gain, the more they want. Humility has become an afterthought in the great ole’ “Land of the Free”. Rather than be grateful for simply having enough (food, money, property, etc.), men desire more of things, than what they really need. Oftentimes, those who desire more than enough, typically find themselves struggling with the troubles that are inevitably associated with “too much”. Rare and few are those who desire much, in order to care for the needs of others. Conversely, those with selfish motives can be found in abundance.

God commanded His people to fear Him, and keep His commandments. Obeying these simple commands requires one to always walk in humility, while appreciating the daily benefits provided by the hand of God.

Those who profess to be born-again believers, should never be guilty of greed, nor the desire to want more than what they need. “Give us this day our daily bread” should be the mindest of all who love the Lord, and strive to be His representatives in the earth. Make an honest effort to empty yourselves of pride and selfishness, then ask God to fill your hearts with His love, wisdom, and understanding.

Just A Thought

Psalm 9

Why do some people work so hard, to tear down the good reputation of others? If those who plot evil against others would redirect all their efforts toward making themselves better, the world would be a more decent place to live. Wicked people fail to realize, their actions only work against themselves. With every trap set to hinder someone, the wicked will always ensnare themselves in the end.

Plugged In To God

Proverbs 3:13-18

Any device that requires a power source to function, is useless without being connected to that same source. An iron will never get hot and steamy without being plugged into an outlet, which will prove ineffective at getting all the wrinkles from your clothes. A vacuum can’t pick up the dust and debris from your floor, except it also be plugged in to a source of power. I can give hundreds of examples of different things requiring power in order to produce, but I’m sure by now you get the point.

A Christian who is plugged into the source of God’s power, has the ability to produce good fruit consistently, while operating in God’s divine wisdom. Wisdom literally makes the believer a force to be reckoned with, in the earth! While some strive for silver, gold, and rubies, those who have direct connection to the wisdom of God, can achieve far more than the value of precious stones. Wisdom grants the people of God long life, riches and honor, pleasantness, peace, happiness, and eternal life. Is that not enough to make you excited?!

This world looks horrible, with all the past, and current events taking place, but the Word of God is still relevant, and we, the children of God, can continue to live out the pages of Scripture, even in this dying world. It’s obvious that suffering will come at times, but never rule out the opportunity for God to work wonders in our lives, as we stay connected to His unlimited source of DUNAMIS power!

Keep your chin up… it’s easier to see Heaven that way,

Ell

Unfaithful Friends

Job 19:1-7

In the midst of multiple horrendous and heartbreaking attacks from satan, the faithful Job was totally unaware of the initial conversation between God and the devil, that led to the unbearable events the Lord’s faithful servant was unwillingly forced to endure. The devil wanted to prove to God, that if He were to remove the hedge of protection from around Job, he would certainly turn against Him. By now, many should know how this amazing story eventually turned out, but if not, feel free to read the entire book of Job, for more in- depth understanding.

During his suffering, Job’s grief was amplified, when his homies felt the need to “vex his soul”. While it was one thing trying to understand losing literally everything, including his children, and his wife’s sanity, Job was troubled the more, listening to his friends constantly try to convince him that he was wicked, and his troubles were of his own doing.

One of the most powerful virtues of God’s Spirit is, discernment (the ability to see, perceive, and distinguish the meaning of things, even without complete understanding). Apparently, Job’s friends lacked this virtue, because had they been in tune to God’s plan, rather than scold and ridicule the humble servant, they would have offered words of comfort and encouragement instead. Imagine watching your whole life fall apart in literal seconds, then having to hear that everything was your fault, from those who you considered your closest friends.

Many in situations as this one, tend to isolate themselves, for fear of being hurt the more, even when being approached by those with good intentions. Job could not understand why his friends were breaking him in pieces with their words, but he should have been more concerned with the fact that he had not sinned, nor did anything to cause his pain, and shame. As humans, we often forget the obvious, when life dumps loads of weight on our shoulders. Those things that should be easy to understand, become hard, and cause us to stress, and lose focus.

There will be experiences in our lives, where God will allow the enemy to come against us; not to defeat us or keep us bound, but to reveal how focused our faith is in God. Job’s encounters were so severe, until he almost gave in to the pressure, but in the end, he endured, and God blessed him with more in the end, than he had before his suffering. Blessings are given by default, to those who are in God, but to those who endure intense trials and attacks from the devil, God will reward you with intense blessings in the end.

Walk in love,

Ell

An answer in time of trouble

Psalm 86:1-7

When trouble arrives in your life, where does it usually originate from? Are most of the things that trouble you orchestrated by the devil and his wicked forces, or is the source of your misfortune a product of your bad decisions? Mine usually come by way of the latter. Trouble comes at us in all shapes and forms, and most of it can be avoided simply by making better choices. King David suffered greatly, because of many unwise decisions he made in his lifetime. Although he was a man after God’s own heart, he was still susceptible to falling into sin and disobedience. What God respected about David was how he directed his feelings of sorrow and grief directly to Him, rather than whine and complain to those around him. When trouble sought out David, he knew to first come to God, so that He could show him mercy that’s everlasting. David was open and honest with God about things that troubled him, while being well aware that God knows all things.

It’s good for us when we can release what we harbor on the inside, that could potentially cause harm to us physically and mentally. God sees what we experience here on earth and knows that we need His omnipotent power, to help us get through life’s struggles. The problem many face is that when trouble comes, they seek help from the wrong sources. There’s nothing wrong with having family and friends in whom you confide in, but who else can hear you, and offer the best help other than God? David recognized that God is good, ready to forgive, and distributes loads of mercy to all who call upon Him. We may not notice all the good God does for us on a daily basis, but I’m certain that if He revealed to us the things He does for us every day, we’d probably pass out on the floor.

As you face trouble, seek God first for deliverance, guidance, and understanding. Maybe the enemy set a trap to throw you off, or something resurfaced from mistakes you’ve made in the past. Whatever the reason for your trouble, don’t let it get you down. God is always available to assist you in all that you experience. Just remember to make wise decisions, and avoid making the same mistakes again.

Seek peace,

Ell

The God of Jacob brings victory

Psalm 20

In seasons of trials and hard times, where you put your trust is vital in assuring deliverance from all your troubles. When you’re suffering from stress or a broken heart, can that shiny vehicle in your garage bring comfort to your situation. Or if, by chance, you are the victim of persecution, will your bank account be useful in turning your haters away? Money can do little to give you the advantage over your enemies in spiritual battles. Cars, houses, boats, and other possessions are equally unequipped with what it takes to overcome evil. But the writer of this Psalm placed all his trust in the Lord, God almighty, not in things of the world to guide him through all he faced.

Only in God, can we stand against all the tricks and wicked schemes of the devil. God is so powerful, that even His name demands respect of demons. Have you ever experienced a time when your name was mentioned, and people changed their tune? It’s kinda like when siblings are fighting, and one mentions that they’re gonna tell momma on the other one. Usually the kids straighten up rather quickly. Or when guys hang out late night on street corners act extra cool every time a cop car rolls through slowly. The name of the Lord represents the unmatched strength and power He possesses. The mere fact that everything was created by Him, earns all my respect by default. Unfortunately, the enemy still tries to hinder the people of God from growing in relationship with the Father, while being fully aware that we are under His divine protection. The nerve of satan, to knowingly attack us when God will ALWAYS come to our defense and put him under our feet. The problem with some people, is they run first to means other than God, when trouble visits their lives. Some rely on money, their name, or associations to help them overcome their trial. But the world wars not against itself. Instead, it fights against those who love God, and are committed to holy living.

Your faith will grow, the more you allow God to lead your life. His way provides the best methods on how to successfully, and safely subdue every enemy that tries to stunt your faith walk. David had strong faith in God, because of the countless experiences God guided him through. The same God of David, awaits to do the same for you. Make it a healthy habit of thinking of God first, in every situation you face. Whether you catch a cold, or an unexpected bill comes in the mail, always remember there’s nothing to big, or small for God to step in, and walk you through it.

Seek peace,

Ell

A troubled birth

Genesis 25:19-34

The more I study Scripture, the more I realize that not many things in life have really changed at all, and that nothing is new under the sun. In the past, men were devious, manipulative, and deceptive, while promoting selfish gain over honest living. Today, we see this same behavior in every sector of society, including churches. The Bible lists details of occurrences where sibling rivalries thrived, and love amongst brothers was almost nonexistent. In today’s era, families fight against each other on a daily basis. This behavior is typical from those who lack the knowledge of God, but when the body of Christ exudes this type of conduct, it cripples the effectiveness of witnessing the Gospel to some effect.

The story of Jacob and Esau is one that could possibly fit in today’s timeline. During labor, Rebekah’s first of her twins was a successful delivery. Immediately after, Jacob came forth, but not as a normal child. After being delivered, Jacob grabbed the heel of his brother Esau. Many wonder what significance there is to this seemingly innocent act, but the answer is revealed as you delve deeper into this chapter.

Rebekah shared the same problem as Sarah in their barrenness, but Isaac followed the formula his father used, and went to God in prayer. God honored Isaac’s prayer, and opened the womb of his wife, Rebekah. While going through the motions of her pregnancy, Rebekah experienced unusual struggling within her womb. She did the wise thing and went straight to God for an answer. How many times did you run to people, instead of God, when you faced a troubling situation. God always has right answer to the things we face. Trust God initially, the next time you encounter an unusual happening.

God answered Rebekah’s prayer and told her that she’s preparing to birth two nations, and two unique types of people will be separated from her womb. God continued and revealed that one nation will be stronger than the other, and the elder will serve the younger. As you know (if you’re familiar with the rest of the story), the family of Esau seemed to be stronger, at first, than Jacob’s. This was because they had dukes and kings long before Israel did. Later down the line, David completely defeated them and made them subject to Israel for quite some time. In any case, what God had spoken, came to pass. The Edomites and Israelites have been two different peoples in manners, customs, and religion from the very beginning, but God still kept His promise to Abraham by continuing to bless the nations through his seed.

Seek peace,

Ell