We all experience difficulties, problems, and trials throughout life. We also look for ways to solve those problems. One basic question we all ask is "What can I do to solve this?" Rather we should ask "What can God do to solve this?" In my experience I’ve found, the more I try to take control of a situation (and not pray about it or involve God in it), the more the situation seems to fall apart or not go as planned. Not only do I feel like I’m losing control, I feel afraid and worried.
I found this really wonderful explanation of how we can handle problems throughout life. I hope it helps you as much as it helps me.
Colossians 2:6 So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in him.
This is such an awesome scripture. It says that the way we are saved is the way we should live.
-We didn't get saved by trying and struggling; it’s free! Likewise, you don’t have to live your life on your own strength by trying and struggling.
-Help from the Lord is free. We just have to receive it.
Every believer is saved simply by believing (and receiving) God's love, grace, and mercy. We are not required to quote ‘clean house’ to receive His forgiveness. We simply need to receive a free gift. Pastor Ray Johnston at Bayside Church tells a really funny example that I know my family and friends can relate to. Of course his explanation is much more entertaining than mine, but I’ll try.
Ray compares receiving Gods grace to cleaning your house. For example, many people hire a cleaning lady to clean their house. We feel embarrassed by our messes so we actually straighten up before the cleaning lady come…which is silly. That’s what the cleaning lady is for!
Likewise, many of us think that in order to have a relationship with God we have to ‘clean house’. Many of us think God won’t be interested in a relationship with us because we’re not good enough. We think we need to become ‘religious’ or do certain things and act a certain way and only then will God consider a relationship with us. In truth, we don’t need to ‘fix our selves’ to have a relationship with God. He simply accepts us as we are.
Similarly, we don’t have to solve our problems on our own. We don’t have to fight and struggle to get by. We simply need to lean on him and He will carry our burdens.
-1 Peter 5:7 Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
-Psalms 37:5 Commit your way to the LORD; trust in him and he will do this.
-Psalm 37:24 though he stumble, he will not fall, the LORD upholds him with his hand.
-Psalm 68:19 Praise be to the Lord, to God our Savior, who daily bears our burdens.
With all that being said, trust the Lord God in every area of your life, even during problems, because every problem He gives you an opportunity to strengthen your faith and trust Him.
Trust in the LORD forever, For in GOD the LORD, we have an everlasting Rock. Isaiah 26:4
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