The modern “name it and claim it” philosophy has become popular in our culture. It offers a skewed view of Christian living, promising that God will do whatever we want if we have enough faith to claim it. When this is preached from the pulpit, it can cause a sense of depression and confusion among Christians, especially when storms arise in their lives. They are often led to believe that they have done something which put them in the trial they are going through or that they remain there due to some fault of their own.
Are you wrestling with whether or not you deserve the lot you’ve been given? Do you accept the lie that you are perhaps a really bad person and deserve the mess that you’ve found yourself in?
Please, do not believe this lie! The apostle Peter is very clear about trials and tribulations. God wants us to walk with him through our trials in order to prove that our testimony is real.
In today’s Scripture reading, Peter gives us the proper reaction to our trials: rejoicing. In the same way, James 1:3-4 states to count it as pure joy “because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”
So, don’t beat yourself up if you are facing unpleasant circumstances. Instead, turn to God for strength, peace, and wisdom to see the lesson he has planned as he enables you to go through it in his Spirit's strength.
Dear Lord, let me count it all as joy, even when I'm going through an unpleasant or tough time. Keep me focused on you and trusting you to help me walk through it so others will see you acting in my life. Amen.
Throughout this Day: Have you ever tried to find the hidden objects in a picture? Life can be like that. If you are going through a rough spot, ask God to reveal to you the blessings that are hidden in it.
Additional Resource: Read how to focus more on God instead of your problems.
Photo Credit: Guillermo Latorre on Unsplash