Tough Times

Psalm 40:1-3

I waited patiently for the Lord; and he inclined to me, and heard my cry. He also brought me up out of a horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock, and established my steps. He has put a new song in my mouth-praise to our God; many will see it and fear, and will trust in the Lord.

It is the dream of most people, to have a secure, stress-free life. The thought of a warm cozy life is so appealing, that it becomes our number one goal. Some of us spend most of our lives on the roller coaster of life. You know what I mean. You work hard with a goal in mind, but something happens to mess up what you are working on.

Most of us were brought up with the “if at first you don't succeed” idea, so we look for a new plan. Most of us go through many plans, but the ultimate goal, still eludes us. Frustration and despair are the usual result. What can I do?

The first thing we must realize is that God is in control, we aren't. God does not cause our decisions to fail or create hardship, but he does allow it. He allows it, because he is trying to get our attention.

When the Israelites left Egypt, it was supposed to be about an 11 day trip to the promised land. As we all know, it took 40 years. God allowed them to keep going in circles around that mountain until they woke up.

We are on a trip too. Our promised land is heaven. Just like the children of Israel, we have basically the same problems to overcome. They complained most of the time about almost everything. That angered God, so he let them live in their misery until they asked for help and forgiveness. When everything got better they ignored God.

So what is the point of this message? Simply this. When we are warm, cozy, and comfortable, we congratulate ourselves for being smart and clever for all of our accomplishments. God is out of our lives for all intents and purposes. On the other hand, every person can get desperate enough to ask God for help. It takes more for some than others to get to that point, but it will happen unless they already belong to satan.

God is in control. He loves you, and wants the best for you, including eternity with him. He will guide you safely, but you must listen and do. If you really know him, it will be a joy to follow him. If you're having problems of any kind, take them to God, and don't complain, because it is probably a wake-up call. Ask God what you are doing wrong, and ask for help. He won't let you down.

All of us need a wake-up call once in a while. When it happens, thank God for loving you so much, he is showing you that you are heading off the path, and he wants to help you get back on. God bless you and your family. Praise the Lord!

Remember Jesus Loves You
Prayer of Salvation
Lord Jesus, please forgive all of my sins, and come into my heart as my personal Savior. I want to serve only you.
Praise the Lord!
Amen