God Isn't Through With You by Dr. Sinclair Grey III

Editor's Note: This article is written by Dr. Sinclair Grey III, Senior Pastor, The Liberation Temple, a non-denominational Christian Church in Mt. Rainier, Maryland.

An inspirational speaker, motivator, author, organizer and “liberator of persons from all intellectual, social and cultural walks of life”, Dr. Sinclair Grey III is a committed advocate for communal change.  NewLifeTodayBlog.com publishes Dr. Sinclair Grey III's writings every Thursday.

In this spiritual journey, you need to understand that God has everything under control. What you may think is out of control, God is setting the stage for you to blow up from the floor up. It's going through the process that gives true meaning and appreciation for what God has for you on the other side. As our elders say, 'no pain - no gain.' Unless you're willing to go through something, how will you know what God's able to do in your life in the midst of all the drama around you? While God may not be speaking to you in the manner you wish, believe that He's up to something awesome. What God plans for you, no demon in hell can thwart. (Oops, I said something). The enemy may try to frustrate you, but he can't stop what God is doing in you and through you.

The Bible says, "Count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing." Please don't miss this. The trials of this life don't come to kill you, but to strengthen you in your faith, commitment, and service to Almighty God. Always remember, what's on the inside provides you with strength to withstand all that's happening on the outside. Even though things may appear shaky, never think God has given up on you. That's my word for you. God's getting you in position to receive what He has for you.

Scripture for the Day: 
"Make a joyful shout to the Lord, all you lands!" (Psalm 100:1 -NKJV)

It's Going To Be Okay by Dr. Sinclair Grey III

Editor's Note: This article is written by Dr. Sinclair Grey III, Senior Pastor, The Liberation Temple, a non-denominational Christian Church in Mt. Rainier, Maryland.
An inspirational speaker, motivator, author, organizer and “liberator of persons from all intellectual, social and cultural walks of life”, Dr. Sinclair Grey, III is a committed advocate for communal change.  NewLifeTodayBlog.com will publish Dr. Sinclair Grey III's writings every Thursday.

Dr, Sinclair Grey III
Senior Pastor
Liberation Temple

No one wants to deal with pain. Let me say it this way. No one wants anything bad to happen to them or their family. It doesn't matter how spiritual or faithful you declare to be, you and those you love and care for will face times of suffering. Whether it's with family, friends, or coworkers, you'll encounter some disappointments. In case you're not feeling that, when things don't go your way, you'll question God and wonder why He's allowing things to happen. Everyone faces something in this life. You're not exempt and neither am I. It's what we tell ourselves that will give us the strength to make it.

The Psalmist declared, "Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning." Please don't miss this. Trouble is temporary. Misery doesn't last forever. And suffering doesn't have the final word. During a storm, I'm encouraging you to draw closer to God through prayer and praise. Tell yourself, 'I'm coming out.' As I close this message, I want you to know it's going to be okay. Trust in God and never give up. Your breakthrough is coming.

Scripture for the Day: 

"The Lord has made known His salvation; His righteousness He has revealed in the sight of the nations." (Psalm 98:2 -NKJV)

Testimony Tuesday - Overcoming Depression With Christ by Dinora Trujeque

A few days ago I watched a movie featuring Natalie Portman and Ashley Judd. My daughter and I had been watching this movie 15 minutes each day before she went to school. This had been going on for three days in a row and then the movie’s theme started to change. 

Immorality showed its ugly face in some parts of the movie and I decided that I would watch it by myself before, to make sure there weren’t any more wrong messages that could affect my daughter. So I sat on my couch and watched it until the very end, (which by the way was very moving).

I have to tell you, I hate immoral scenes and profanity in movies because I think they are not necessary to make a good movie, and because they have been put there to make us believe that a life of sinfulness is fun and rewarding, when in fact IT IS NOT. 

You wouldn’t believe me this, but I had to fast forward that movie more than 15 times! I ended up watching half of it, just the things worth watching. I wouldn’t recommend this method or this movie. It is always better to choose well from the beginning.

I learned something from that movie though. Even if life plays dirty tricks on us, God wants us to know that “all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.” In the same way that the story had a happy ending, God has planned a happy ending for the lives of His children too. “For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son”

Have you ever had that feeling that the problems in your life would never end? I’ve been going through some family problems for some time and I feel worn out already. It has affected my health to the point where I have to deal with depression, because I know that except through prayer, there is nothing I can do to help my family. I know what I just said sounds as if I see prayer as doing nothing, but that is not what I mean. If you have ever been in such a situation when there is no way you can even alleviate the pain of your love ones, you know how I feel. That doesn’t mean that I have lost my faith, in a way I am reclaiming it every day. 

I also realized that even if I’d like to fast-forward my life like I did with the movie, to avoid the bad parts, life doesn’t work that way. We’ll have to go through some problems of different sizes and shapes but the Lord has promised us that “in all things we will be more than conquerors through Christ.”

He comforts us with the hope that just like the Apostle Paul; we’ll get to that point of maturity in which we’ll be able to say, “I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

I am learning to wait on the Lord more than ever, because only through trials and tribulations can my faith grow. I am holding fast to His word with all my strength because He is faithful, reliable, and powerful. 

He told us our lives would be like this; he wouldn’t lie to us, and he asked us to be of good cheer even when the pain is great, to be at peace because The Prince of Peace is with us, the One who has overcome the world is by our side. 

Inspirational Video Moment: In Times of Trouble

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Inspirational Video Moment: Near to God

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Inspirational Video Moment: The Broken

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Inspirational Video Moment: Do You Feel Hopeless?

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Do you feel Hopeless? **MOTIVATIONAL VIDEO**

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Inspirational Video Moment: Forgiven Me

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Inspirational Video Moment: I Need You Once Again

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Life's Changes by Roger Horsch

Graphic Credit

When our hopes and dreams are shattered
And they seem to be out of range
It’s the ability to know what we need
In our lives to make a change.

We must find out what’s important
Not what we want, but what we need
Our lives should be filled with love and joy
Not anger, lust or greed.

So fill your life with things that are new
And get rid of the bad and the old
‘cause it’s always hard to take criticism
Or to do what we are told.


But the change is deep within us
If we look we just might find
The key that unlocks the door to change
So we won’t be left behind.

So when you let God change your life
Your life will start to change you
And when it is all said and done
Your life’s changes will be new.

Graphic Credit

I Want A Do Over, or Do I? by Bob Valleau

Is your life like a roller coaster -- a never ending ride of ups and downs with a few sharp turns now and then? When you left home to embark on living your own life, were you prepared for such a tumultuous experience? Yet, if you could go back in time and had the ability to change your destiny, would you?

How many of us wish we had a life "do over"? Oh, some of you would say you are happy at this point in your life, and, as believers, you may quote how we are commanded to be content in whatsoever state we find ourselves.

Still, haven't you ever wondered where you would be if you had the ability to choose your own destiny? I have, and, I must admit, it's scary. I have often wondered, "What if?" And then there are the "could've, should've, would've" possibilities that run through my mind. I know. I live dangerously because entertaining such thoughts border on the edge of plain fiction or total lunacy.

Well, call me crazy for being human and nonsensical. But my wandering mind has never steered me wrong. It has always led me back to the most sensible and logical conclusion: my destiny is not a destination but a person, Jesus Christ. My rambling thoughts have helped me to see how God does not live in our "what ifs." Nor does He live in our "could'ves, would'ves, should'ves." He lives in our here and now, always drawing us closer so we can experience a more intimate relationship with Him.

You see, I'm glad God never gave us the power to chart our own course. I'm glad He wraps our life's journey in a mystery which forces us to place our trust in Him. I'm glad He knows the end from the beginning and only reveals what He has to at just the right moment.

So no, I don't want a life "do over." The only power God has given me is what I do with each day and whom I will serve. In reality, isn't that what our destiny is all about anyway?

Copyright 2012 by Bob Valleau. Bob has over 25 years of writing experience for the Christian market. He was once named Christian Writer of the Year by the American Christian Writers Association. Currently, he freelances and lives in Texas.

Article Source: http://www.faithwriters.com-CHRISTIAN WRITERS

Live One Day at a Time by Susan Ferguson

"I am an old man and have known a great many troubles, but most of them never happened." ~Mark Twain

Regardless of age, marital status, or stage in life, we all have our own set of concerns. Parents have a long list of worries ranging from potty training to paying off college debt. Singles worry about traveling life's journey alone. Senior citizens worry about declining health issues. Financial concerns rank high on the worry list, and some families struggle to keep afloat. Teenagers worry about peer acceptance, grades, and choosing a career. The list is endless for every age group.

 Worry is rooted in fear and is usually related to a deep concern of what will or will not happen in the future. Worry can keep us up at night and send anxiety levels soaring. Like a thief in the night, worry robs us of our peace and joy.

So much of what we worry about never happens. Worry does nothing to better the outcome of a situation or change the course of action. The distress that accompanies worry may do more harm than the actual thing which we worry.

Some of us are living way below par of what God desires for us. God understands our struggles with worry, and He does not condemn us. Jesus tells us not to worry about tomorrow and live one day at a time.

 

"Do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." (Matthew 6:34 NIV)

We are not promised tomorrow. It is important to make the most of every day God gives us. Worry is a waste of valuable time -- precious moments, sunny days, and productive hours -- that we will never get back.

Excessive worry may be a sign that we are moving away from our dependence on God. Prayer and Bible study help quiet our minds and diminish our fears. A daily walk with Jesus is essential in helping to minimize worry. Trust Jesus, for He is trustworthy.

"When I am afraid, I put my trust in You." (Psalm 56:3 NIV)

God makes provision for our future. He walks alongside us, hand in hand, as we make our journey ahead. We are in capable hands. He promises to be with us always, and to strengthen and sustain us during times of adversity.

"The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged." (Deuteronomy 31:8 NIV)

Prayer
Father, many of us are plagued by worry and fear. Replace worry with joy and peace. Replace fear with faith and love. Help meet the needs of families who have college debt and financial concerns. Stretch forth your healing hand to senior citizens and those with health concerns. Bring Godly relationships into the lives of singles. Provide guidance to teenagers and parents alike. In Jesus name. Amen.

Susan Ferguson
Jackson, Mississippi

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Joy During Times of Tribulation by Michelle Goodwine

 When we are going through trials and tribulations, often times it is difficult to have joy in our hearts.  Even as believers, when we are going through those "valley moments",  many of us find it difficult to be happy.  But, unlike those in the world, Christians have a reason to rejoice while we are going through tough times.  We have God on our side.  We have the Lord to count on.  And we can depend on the promises of God to never leave us or forsake us to give us strength.  

James 1:2-3 says:

Consider it pure joy, 

my brothers and sisters, 

whenever you face trials of many kinds, 

because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.

I am so grateful to God for showing me that no matter what my current circumstances, I have no reason to be sad.  God is always in control.  God is always on the throne.  So, even when we feel out of control, we can feel assured that God is concerned about our well-being. As the song goes, "Trouble don't last always." No matter what struggles we are experiencing, joy does come in the morning.  

In order to feel joy during hard times, we just need to remember that God will work everything out for His good in the end.  If we pray for His will to be done (and not ours), have faith in God, and patiently wait for His response, God will answer our prayers.  Now He may not give us want we want, but He will give us what we need if we trust Him.

As someone who prayed for a particular outcome, and was blessed with God granting me what I wanted, I have learned to pray for God's will.  When I received what I wanted, I soon learned that what I wanted, was not what God would have wanted for me.  Over the years, because of this prayer, I have experienced a great deal of hurt and pain.  So for those of you who have a desire in their heart, whether it is for a certain job, love interest, or material good, ask and you shall receive, says                    .

So for those Christians who are going through trials, let us remember that a New Life Today is possible.  Having the confidence that God will answer your prayers is the reason why you can praise God in advance, and why we can be filled with joy and peace on the inside, even when the wold around us may seem chaotic and out of control.

Below are a few Bible verses that will inspire you 

during times of trials and tribulations:

 

1 Peter 5:10 

And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.

Romans 12:12 

Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.

Philippians 4:6-7 

Do not be anxious about anything, 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 your minds in Christ Jesus.

Joshua 1:9 

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

Psalm 34:17-18 

When the righteous cry for help, the Lord hears and delivers them out of all their troubles. The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.

Love is Not Fear by Michelle Lawson

Recently I began watching the Jeremy Kyle talk show.  What I like about it is that the host candidly tells his guests what he feels about their immature, irresponsible, and stupid behavior. In other words, he is real with them.  He doesn't sugar coat how much damage to their children these guests  who are on the show to find out the paternity of have caused.  Or, in the case of yesterday's show, Jeremy Kyle showed clear disdain for this couple. They had lost custody of their children because of evidence of child abuse.

 What was most disturbing about this situation was the fact that the mother was totally delusion about the husband's obvious lack of respect for her and their children.  The husband, who was an admitted drug addict, had persuaded his wife to prostitute herself while she was pregnant with their youngest child.  And the sad thing about the whole scenario was that when asked why she continued to stay with her despicable husband, she replied, "I love him."

What touched me about this woman's response was that I know there are so many women in this world who believe they love a man who obviously does not love her.  Oh yeah, the man may say he loves her.  And from time to time, he may treat her nice, buy her something, take her out, whisper sweet nothings in her ear, etc.  But it's not love.  

1 John 4:16-18 talks about what love is...

 ¹⁶ And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. 

Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them.  

¹⁷ This is how love is made complete among us so that we will have confidence on the day of judgment: 

In this world we are like Jesus.  

¹⁸ There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. 

The one who fears is not made perfect in love. 1 John 4:16-18 (NIV)

The Bible tells us that love is not fear.  In the case of this women on the Jeremy Kyle Show, it was obvious that this woman "loved" this man out of fear. How do  we know this?  Because his actions clearly showed that he did not love her.  And yet, despite these obvious signs of disrespect and  lack of love, she continued to "love" this man.  It was apparent that she feared the unkown of leaving him more than the fear of staying. But Love is not fear.

I believe people who have a misguided view about it believe that love is a feeling.  They believe they are in love because their hearts patter when they see that special person, or when they hear someone else's name.  But I have grown to realize that love is an action verb.  If you are in love with someone, your actions will show it.  You will do positive things for that person as a sign of your love.  You will want the best for that person because of the love you have for that person.  And that love in actions will be returned. A person that loves you will not ask you to prostitute yourself, or to do drugs, or to commit a crime, or force you to have sex against your will, or to hit you.  A person that does those things to you does not love you, no matter what he or she says.  A person that loves you will treat you with kindness, respect, and show care and consideration at all times. 

So what do you do if you realize that your relationship is not a loving one? How about if you are married to this person? Well, your course of action depends on what part you have played.   You have to evaluate the relationship and be honest with yourself. Perhaps you have been the one of the relationship who has been unloving.  If so, what do you need to do to actually love the other person?  Do it starting today! Or do you know deep in your heart that you will never love that person. Then what you need to do is find a way to leave this person.  If you have any compassion at all as a human being, why would you be so selfish to continue in a loveless relationship.  That is so unfair to the other person!

Anyone who is in a relationship because of fear, wake up today and realize this is not love.  I know this realization may be a very painful one, but isn't the state of your relationship hurting you anyway?  As David says in Psalm 27:1

 ¹ The LORD is my light and my salvation—
   whom shall I fear?
The LORD is the stronghold of my life—
   of whom shall I be afraid?

Living in Her Car - Finding a New Home with God (Source: CBN.com)

Living in Her Car - Finding a New Home with God (Source: CBN.com)

Jabez's Lessons for the New Year by Michelle Lawson

Jabez's Lessons for the New Year
by Michelle Lawson

What is interesting when reading 1 Chronicles 4 is that until verse 9, it is a genealogical account of the tribe of Judah - it tells who is related to whom.  But when we get to 1 Chronicles 4:9,  the Bible takes the time to give a brief biography about Jabez.  

In verse 9, the Bible says that when he was born, Jabez caused his mother great pain.  So, although she gave birth to several children, what sticks out about her child Jabez is that his birth was a difficult, painful one.  The pain must have been particularly excruciating if it was so severe that it was the reason his name was chosen.  In Hebrew, one word for pain is Jabez.  

I once heard my pastor, Pastor Dechard Freeman of Abundant Life Church in Austin, Texas preach a sermon about Jabez.  And what Pastor Freeman made the congregation visualize is a child growing up with a name meaning Pain.  Can you imagine the burden that child must have felt - the shame, the guilt?

We all know people who have felt worthless since childhood.  Often times these children have been told that they would never amount to anything - that there were good for nothing.  But as the story of Jabez illustrates, there is hope for each and everyone of us.  Jabez did not let the circumstances of his birth determine his entire life.  Even though it looked as if he would lead to a life of despair and sorrow, the Lord made Jabez' life a great one.  Why did that happen?  Let's look at the text for the reason:

 ⁹ Jabez was more honorable than his brothers. His mother had named him Jabez,^[c] saying, “I gave birth to him in pain.” ¹⁰ Jabez cried out to the God of Israel, “Oh, that you would bless me and enlarge my territory! Let your hand be with me, and keep me from harm so that I will be free from pain.” And God granted his request. (NIV)

Note that in verse 10, Jabez cries out to God.  Jabez knows that the only one who can help him, the only one who can change his circumstances is God.  Despite the difficulties of his birth and his life, Jabez has faith that the Lord can change the outcome of his life.  

From birth, Jabez was labeled a loser - someone who had caused his mother pain, someone who would amount to nothing.  His prayer shows that Jabez realizes that God is the one who blesses.  Jabez knew he could not make it on his own.  Jabez could have become angry and bitter and ambitious to satisfy his feelings of selfworthlessness.  But he didn't.  Remember, the Bible starts by saying that "Jabez was more honorable than his brothers." (verse 9) What that means to me is that before he prayed, Jabez was already living a life of obedience to God.

What the Prayer of Jabez teaches us is that the Lord will bless us if we are honorable.  However, we must ask the Lord to bless us so that His name, not ours, is glorified. Jabez did not just ask God to bless him.  Jabez asked that the Lord continue to guide his life.  Jabez knew that it was not enough to receive the Lord's blessing - he needed the Lord's continued guidance and direction.  Jabez knew that even within his blessing that there were going to be challenges, trials and tribulations.  And he also knew that in order to thrive, he would continue to need the Lord's help.

So how can Jabez's prayer help us all live a New Life in the New Year?  Well, first we have to strive to be honorable.  We have to be obedient to God's Word in all things.  If there are any areas of our life where we are disobedient to God's Will, let this year be when we become who God wants us to be.  It will not be easy, but it will definitely be worth it.

The story of Jabez demonstrates to all of us that it doesn't matter how we start out.  Through our obedience to God, and for His purpose, we can achieve anything.  Let us all make 2012 the year that God grants us our request - not for our own selfish reasons, but to glorify the name of the Lord. We should ask ourselves these questions: 

• Am I living a life of honor?  If the answer is No, what must I do to live an honorable life? 
• What does enlarging my territory mean in my life?

This year we should focus on how we can serve the Kingdom of God more?  Enlarging our territory does not necessarily mean increasing our financial wealth.  Enlarging our territory could mean expanding the number of people we witness our faith to, or increasing our volunteer efforts, or simply strengthening our personal relationship with God.

The Holy Spirit guides us in the way we should go.  All we have to do is abide by what the Holy Spirit is telling us, and 2012 will lead us to a New Life!!

The Solution to Being Sick & Tired

by Michelle Lawson 

In the past I was the type of person who believed that I was responsible for my life.  I accepted Christ at the age of 7 and should have learned to lean on the Lord for all things. However, I went through life believing that as long as I tried my best to do the right thing and make the right decisions, I would have a good life.  But looking back, I now know that no matter how much I tried to do the right thing, I am a sinner and will always fall short of His grace.

I thank God for giving me the revelation through life's trials and tribulations - losing my job, an abusive marriage, an emotionally troubled child - that the only way I could be victorious was through Him.  God has taught me not to feel ashamed that I need His help, as well as the help of others, to survive. And I am blessed to say that today I live a victorious life.  I have a job, I left my abusive husband, and my child is so much better now.  This article is for those of you out there who feel like there is no way out of your depressed existence.

Have you ever woken up after tossing and turning in bed all night long and thought to yourself "I'm sick and tired of being sick and tired?"  Don't feel depressed and defeated about your current situation.  No matter what you are going through, God is the answer.

Have you been unemployed for more than 6 months and it seems like you are never going to get another job?  Or are you in an abusive relationship and are afraid of leaving?  Or maybe you are an alcoholic, drug or food addict who feels overpowered by your addiction?  Whatever your current crisis, I am glad to tell you that I know the solution - God.  It is just that simple.  Only through God can we overcome our trials and tribulations.  No matter how much we try on our own to make positive life changes, the only way to be truly victorious is with God's help.  Don't feel ashamed or mad at yourself that you cannot overcome life's crisis without His help.God wants us to depend on Him.  In fact, that is what God intended.

Tired of being sick and tired?  Here are a few verses that may help you:
It is God who arms me with strength and makes my way perfect. Psalm 18:32

Look to the LORD and his strength; seek his face always. Psalm 105:4

I have told you these things, that in me you may have peace. In the world you have oppression; but cheer up! I have overcome the world. John 16:33



In nothing be anxious, but in everything, by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your thoughts in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and don't lean on your own understanding. In all things acknowledge him, and he shall direct your way. Proverbs 3:9

Looking for other inspirational verses.  Click here for other Bible Verses for Encouragement.

New Life Today
How can you have a New Life Today when you are sick and tired of being sick and tired? It may not be easy, but  through God we can begin to start a new life of victory, rather than defeat. What God has told me to tell you is that the change begins with Prayer.  Praying is the one time when you speak directly to God, and He speaks to you.  

Looking for change in your life?  Stop reading this article right now, and Pray.  Pray for God's grace and mercy.  Pray that God gives you the strength you need to make a change.  Pray that God will give you guidance about what you need to do to change your life.  

Don't just stop with prayer, though.  You must take action after prayer before anything will happen.  In order for God to bless you, you have to give God something to work with.  Unemployed?  When was the last time you updated your resume or asked someone if they could help you find a job?  Or maybe you're unemployed because God has a purpose for your life that you have been refused to fulfill?  Are you being abused?  Even if you decide not to leave right now, you can take action - call a domestic violence hotline or seek out domestic violence counseling.  For those of you with an addiction to drugs or alcohol, consider calling a treatment center.  Addicted to food?  Why not take a 20 minute walk today or eat 1 -2 more servings of fruits or vegetables today.  

The journey of change starts with the first step.  In order to get a New Life Today, we must have faith in God and believe that God will bless us in our mess if we Pray, Receive His guidance and then take Positive Action. As Psalm 37:3-5 proclaims, "Trust in the LORD, and do good; so shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed. Delight thyself also in the LORD: and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart. Commit thy way unto the LORD; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass."

Nothing's Too Hard For God by Michelle Lawson

Yesterday morning I noticed that someone I know very well was looking sad. I asked her what was wrong, and she did not reply.  I asked her again.  And she still would not reply.  Then I said to her, "Whatever you are going through, remember that nothing is too hard for God."

And as I said it aloud, I had an epiphany - a realization of how true that statement is.  We will all go through trials and tribulations.  Whether it is sickness, grief, lack of finances, marital problems, what should keep us going is that God is in control of this world.  Through God, as Mark 10:27 proclaims, all things are possible.

When I look back over my life, I am amazed at how I made it through some really tough times.  But I know the answer is through God's grace and mercy.  Even during the times when I had lost my faith in God, He still watched over me and protected me.  And during those times in my life when I was so mad with God and myself that I just could not bring myself to pray, I know that my mother, grandmother, and others had me in their prayers.

When we look over our lives and remember all the times when God made a way out of no way, we all realize that Nothing, and I mean Nothing, is too hard for God! Don't get flustered by your current situation.  Remember that no matter what is happening around you,  God is in control. If we have faith, pray, believe that God  is able and willing to help you, and you step out on faith and take action toward a solution,Maybe it a time when you were unemployed, or when you were in an abusive relationship and you just couldn't see a way out, or maybe it was a time when your body was sick and you didn't have insurance to get the medical attention you needed?  Well, let me tell you, all three of those situations happened to me.  And I am so glad to say that thanks to God, I made it through.

So how do we know that nothing is too hard for God?  Because The Word says so.  If you are going through some trials and tribulations right now, the following are a few verses that might bring you comfort:

Joshua 1:9
Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go. (NIV)

1 Peter 1:6-7
In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may be proved genuine and may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed. (NIV)

1 Corinthians 10:13
No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it. (NIV)
 
Isaiah 40:31
But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint. (KJV) 

2 Corinthians 4:16-18
Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal. (NIV)

James 1:2-4
Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. (NASB)
 
A website that might help you is http://nothingstoohardforgod.org

New Life Today
What can you do to have a new life today?  Just take 5 minutes out of your day and think of a time in your past when you just didn't know how you were going to make it, but you did. Remember that God created the heavens and the earth.  So whatever problem we have, no matter big it seems for us, it is not too hard for God.Use those past experiences to give you hope for a current challenge.  And as Romans 15:13 says, "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." (NIV)