WHEN TROUBLE COMES
Debbie Nelson
Today’s Scripture: “But I will hope continually and will praise you yet more and more.” Psalm 71:14, ESV
Theme: The desert may tempt us to believe God isn’t good or powerful anymore. When we worship anyway, we acknowledge the truth of His faithfulness in our lives.
ROSES OR THORNS
It’s easy to praise God when everything in our lives is coming up roses. What happens when we encounter thorns? God tells us there will be trouble (John 16:33). They can be overwhelming and seem insurmountable. One of the most difficult seasons of my life lasted for many years. Someone who I love very much was struggling with an addiction. I prayed and prayed for a miracle. As time went on, I was certain that God had abandoned me. At least, that’s what the enemy wanted me to believe. Honestly, I was very tempted to believe that. My patience with God was wearing thin. Why wasn’t He listening to me? Why wasn’t He helping me when I needed him the most?
TURN TO HIS WORD
If only I had turned to Scripture. There are so many examples of trials and tribulations in the Bible. Daniel was facing the threat of the lions’ den, but he continued to pray three times every day. What about Job? He lost everything, yet he never stopped praising God. Even when Paul and Silas were imprisoned in chains, they continued to worship Him.
HAVING FAITH
None of these men turned away from God. In fact, it seems like they ran to Him even faster than usual. Why? They had faith in their God. I’m learning that faith isn’t faith until it’s tested. These men were definitely being tested in their faith. Despite their circumstances, their worship grew in intensity. That alone should encourage us to trust in God’s promises, cementing our own hope in God’s power and mercy.
Make It Personal: Are you in the middle of the desert right now? If you are, run to God! Continue to praise and worship Him, just as you do when you’re on the mountain top. Remain steadfast in your praise because the enemy is looking for the tiniest crack in your faith. Don’t let him gain a hold over you! Cling to God, who you know has always walked by your side and will continue to do so.
Pray: Heavenly Father, thank You for Your faithfulness and for all the blessings You have bestowed on me. You know the challenges I am facing. Continue to comfort me and guide me through the obstacles ahead of me. Help me to trust in You despite my despair. Teach me patience and humility as I remain faithful in Your love and mercy. Amen.
Read: Daniel 6:10, Job 1:20-21, Acts 16:25-26, Lamentations 3:22-24, Psalms 46:1-3
Weekly Memory Verse: "Do all things without grumbling or disputing.” Philippians 2:14, ESV