Happy New Year friends! Are you alreadying setting new goals and proclaiming this year you will get down to business and not stop until your dreams are met? If that is your mindset I am happy and wish you all the best in following through with your desires.
What about the rest of you? Maybe last year did not go as planned. You had plenty of goals, worked toward your vision, yet nothing came the way you thought it would. I want to encourage you that hope is not lost, but is actually being renewed for greater things than you had imagined.
As we begin the new year let us go back and focus on what Jesus has placed in our hearts, knowing that He is working everything out for our good and His glory. Forget last year and all the things that did not work out like you hoped. Do not let fear or anxiety be your guide, but stick strongly to the Word of God for final authority no matter what the situation looks like.
There Are New Beginnings
I believe in new beginnings because that is what God promises, every day, He gives us fresh, new mercy (unmerited favor) daily - it is already waiting for us before our feet ever touch the floor!
"Through the LORD's mercies we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not,. They (mercies, unmerited love and favor) are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness." (Lamentatations 3:22-23 NKJV)
Let me get real - God has promises yet to be fulfilled in your life. Your part is to keep going and trust in His guidance and timing. Take control over your emotions, which is your flesh! Force your spirit to rule until your flesh comes in to submission to what the Word of God says. You can do this. The Lord has provided all you need to take the next step by faith.
Last year was not a failure, but a learning lesson to see where you stopped believing in Him and trusted emotions and feelings over what God's Word says. Stop trying to figure everything out and go by the Word alone. It will cancel out all those roller coaster feelings.
Pressing on Toward the High Calling
There is no denying that I had plenty of stuggles last year and called on the Lord continually for His strengrh, guidance and wisdom to rise up in me to give peace over each situation. The battle was not easy, but I refused to let the enemy steal what God placed in my heart through His promises despite what I saw or heard in the natural.
I spent hours each day (and still do) listening to biblical teachings, encouranging messages and motivational (biblical) speakers throughout the day and at times all night. Continually feeding my spirit on the scriptures as my *weapon, helped me cast down all imaginations that were against what God said in His Word, obeying God by giving no place to the devil's lies. (Ephesians 4:27-30)
"Casting down (all) imaginations, and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity (take control over) every thought to the obedience of Christ. And having in a readiness to revenge all disobedience, when your obedience is fulfilled." (2 Corinthians 10:5-6 NKJV)
(*Ephesians 6:10-18 Armor of God)
The enemy is not going to give up so neither can we. It will take faith and continual hearing the Word to overcome what the devil is trying to do, but be of good courage, you have already won the battle through Christ - believe it!
Last year God renewed my strength daily, my faith grew stronger gaining fresh insight to who I am through Christ. No matter what I see, because God is faithful to His Word, I hold fast to my confession (Hebrews 10:23) that by His stripes we (hubby, our pets, others and myself) are healed (1 Peter 2:24). I have all things through Christ who gives me strength for every situation and He meets every need. (Phil. 4:13,19)
Start This Year Renewed
With fresh manna in my spirit, I am preparing for the best year ever and the journey to be filled with faith and favor over every area of my life. In doing so I have researched specific scriptures to focus on as I press forward toward the high calling of God in my life. (Free list link below.) I encourage you to do the same with biblical verses that line up according to the vision God has placed in your heart.
Regardless of how things have gone in the past, God has given us new hope and another chance to put His Word to work in our lives. New mercies and favor are available every single day - take it to heart and run with it! Expect to see God's hand of Daily Favor!
Do not give up on what God placed in your heart! Let the Word of God rule over and sustain (Isaiah 46:4b) your life this year no matter the circumstances remaining faithful to Him, then get ready for God to show up and pour out His favor over your life and plans.
"Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." Galatians 6:9
Maybe you don’t know the Living God that I know, but would like to have this kind of favor in your life also.Click on the above tab “Tell Me About Jesus” for more information on becoming a child of the Savior.
Content Copyright from Favored1/Fay Ann Daniels unless noted. Do not copy.
Disclaimer: Article information is not meant to be used as treatment for mental or physical issues, but geared toward spiritual awareness.
Disclaimer Notes: Results may vary due to lack of belief.
Unless noted, scripture reference in series was taken from the New King James Bible Version provided by Bible Gateway. Image Creative Common License if not specified.Image
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I have been listening ... I have also been watching some strange behavior ... that of unbelief, fear, uncertainty and doubt. Not all of it was from strangers, no indeed. In fact, it was me.
This week we faced some challenges and as I prepared for them, my stomach felt like it was being shaken and tossed to and fro. Sure I kept repeating the Word of God over and over outloud and silently, but as we arrived at our destination feelings of doubt and questioning keep resurfacing.
The individuals standing before me knew the testimony I proclaimed, but was what I feared being clearly displayed in my behavior despite the continual casting down of all imaginations? Were my actions compromising my confession?
I remembered what I heard evangelist Joyce Meyer say in my early morning faith building teaching session, right before I walked out the door that day.
"It's how we act while we are in trouble that's important. There's no greater witness than stability; to be the same all the time. That's the greatest witness you can be to a family that's not serving God (or any unbeliever for that matter). Be happy, be peaceful, be stable. Treat them good."
As we waited for a doctor's report I heard in my spirit "Keep your eyes on Me." I closed my eyes and it was as if the hand of God reached out and gently turned my head so it faced Him. Looking in my eyes, in my spirit I heard Him softly say, "Believe Me."
Immediately, the peace that He gave me at the time of salvation rose up within and I was calmed, remained stable, immovable and unshaken. My thoughts had not been given a voice; only the Word remained and came out of my mouth. God heard my cries out to Him and was faithful to His Word!
It Is Your Move
Perhaps you can relate to my experience in the challenge in overcoming feelings of fear with faith. Do not be discouraged.
The challenges you may face and decisions you have to make are extemely difficult at times and sometimes you may feel your faith is struggling, but do not give in to those emotions by giving them a voice. Life and death are in the power of the tongue. You determine the outcome by what comes out of your mouth, so speak what you want not what you feel! (Proverbs 18:21 NLT)
This is life, your life, and the devil knows it is not a game, but he will still try to play you!
Where is this coming from and who is directing your life as if your were a game piece to be shuffled all around in directions you did not want to go?
I want to remind you that it does not have to be that way, and this is why.
When it comes to winning in the "game of life" as some people say (over the obstacles that are thrown along our path), you have the upper hand on strategy if you are a believer in Christ Jesus.
Being crowned with the Righteousness of God is the only "pawn" we need. Your faith is the "game piece" (pawn). It has the power to move mountains and move you in position for the favor of God to manifest in your life (at any place, any time, through any situation) if you let it and stay in belief.
Having both knowledge and wisdom found in the scriptures, faith is the most precious game piece you have and you control how it is used - for belief or unbelief. It is your move! The devil knows that, do you?
“Oh, the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God. How unsearchable are His judgments and His ways past finding out!(Romans 11:33 NKJV)
If you are still struggling and battling over any challenges that have come, be reminded how God declared that the victory is already yours. That means you are an overcomer and have already won no matter what things look like.Now take your stand and act like the victor you are through Christ Jesus.
Lots of life "obstacles" were thrown our way, but through our challenges we smiled, laughed and did not let it get us down.We are patiently believing God for a good outcome or report over every circumstance.
What is happening in your life that is throwing your game out of whack? No matter what you are experiencing, God’s grace and mercy will see you through if you remain steadfast in your belief that He is faithful to do His Word.He will grant abundant, unmerited favor on your life and care for you, giving renewed hope to your spirit and situation.
"You have granted me life and favor,
and Your care has preserved my spirit."
(Job 10:12 NKJV)
Never forget your faith is not a pawn piece for the devil to move about at will. Jesus has defeated the enemy and declared the "game of the wicked" over, proclaiming victory for the children of God.
Remain steadfast in the Word of God, trusting He will work all things out for your good. Do not let your faith waver on God by giving into fear; remain assured in His promises and be unshaken. Stand your ground by faith and declare I will not be moved!
"If I say, my foot slips, Your mercy (constant, steadfast unfailing love, faithfulness and favor), O LORD, will hold me up. In the multitude of my anxieties within me, Your comforts delight my soul." (Psalm 94:18-19 NKJV)
When troubles try to overtake you, proclaim these verses believing the power of God is present and watch His Daily Favor be manifested in your situation!
"I have set the LORD always before me; because He is at my right hand I shall not be moved." (Psalm 16:8 NKJV)
"He only is my rock and my salvation;
He is my defense I shall not be moved (shaken). (Psalm 62:6 KJV)
"Cast your burden on the LORD,
and He shall sustain you; He shall never permit the Righteous to be moved."
(verse 22, but read all of Psalm 55)
"He will not allow your foot to (slip) be moved." (verse 3, but read all of Psalm 121)
"Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, firm, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord." (1 Corinthians 15:58 NKJV)
For over twenty years I have studied the teachings of this South African theologian who is considered wise in the Word on prayer.
*For those who trust in Jesus Christ, God gives the promise of life here but also the gift of eternal life as an inheritance of being His child. If you would like to have this gift also, click here to learn more.
Disclaimer: Article information is not meant to be used as treatment for mental or physical issues, but geared toward spiritual awareness.
Maybe you don’t know the Living God that I know, but would like to have this kind of favor in your life also.Click on the above tab “Tell Me About Jesus” for more information on becoming a child of the Savior.
Content and Image Copyright from Favored1/Fay Ann Daniels unless noted. Do not copy.
Disclaimer Notes: Results may vary due to lack of belief.
Unless noted, scripture reference in series was taken from the New King James Bible Version provided by Bible Gateway. ImageCreative Common License if not specified.
These past few weeks have been quite difficult for so many of you that the ''pray with ceasing" scripture has been easy to follow. Through all the troubles, tests and trials has it been hard for you to find anything to smile about let alone laugh? Believe me, I can relate!
However, although I can sympathize (and empathize), God's way of doing things somehow always causes me to look at things differently, and yes at times, even makes me laugh!
"God made me laugh."
In your quiet time have you ever found things you can laugh about with the Lord? Try it ... it won’t be as difficult as you think, trust me.
In my Bible study time I found some things that, in my eyes, God must have seen as "humorous" from His perspective. Maybe not, but I sure did, especially because they connected with me in some way.
Scripture teaches in Genesis 21:6 of a time where God caused Sarah to laugh when He did a miracle in her life. Sarah had longed to have a child of her own and even though she was up in years, the desire never went away or stopped being part of her dream of being a mother. Not having children myself, her situation was easy to understand having had simular prayers for a child along my own journey.
Everyone thought it was crazy for her to have a child at age 90, but not God and He gave her the desire of her heart ... it just took a looooooong time!
"And Sarah declared, God has brought me laughter (her son Isaac). All who hear about this will laugh with me."
If Jehovah was not laughing at how ridiculous this looked to mankind, surely He had a huge smile on His face. After all, what would be your reaction to seeing a 90 year old woman carrying her first born? I know, pretty amazing! No wonder her tears from trialsome times turned into laugher!
Now God could have given her that child when she was younger, but He didn’t. Sarah had to trust God at His word and stay in faith during difficult times before she saw her breakthrough miracle.
I imagine there were some "belly" laughs going on don’t you think when the big even finally took place?
Terrible to Terrific
There was another passage (2 Kings 6:1-7) where I can picture all the "boys" gathered when something strange took place.
The story begins with Elisha and the prophets gathered by the Jordan River because it was a larger area for prayer and meetings. This new location would be perfect, so they assembled with tools in hand to begin cutting down trees to create a log area for sitting.
Suddenly as one man was chopping, his ax head flew off and landed in the water! I know that situation probably wasn't funny at the time, but the way I envision this happening, it must have been a sight to see the ax head flying off the handle and through the air into the river.
I can picture the men watching and their heads follow the action as the ax head soars up into the air and crashes down into the river sinking with a big splash!
In desperation the man cutting the tree yelled to Elisha, "Oh Sir, it was a borrowed ax!" In other words, "Oh no!!! Do something! I will have to pay for that!"
Can you picture this ... Elisha takes a deep breath, then walks over to the man. Ok ... calm down.
This is what really happened.
Elisha asked, "Where did it fall?" When the man pointed to the place, Elisha then cut a stick and tossed it into the water at the exact spot the man showed him.
Immediately, the ax head floated to the surface and Elisha shouted, "Grab it." The man reached out into the water and grabbed the ax head that was borrowed!"
What a relief that man must have felt when the ax was retrieved, and what extraordinary favor in the way it happened! After the fact and perhaps years down the road, the story of the floating ax head told by this man probably incorporated a bit of laughter.
There is always going to be something that challenges and tests our faith, yet in the midst of those events God provides a way out with unusual opportunities where He shouts - "Here, grab it." In other words God is saying - trust Me, here is the answer, grab hold of it by faith before it slips away and is gone!
Laugh at yourself.
With so much negativity going on in the world and things not working out as planned I know it can be hard to laugh at the simple, so called "dumb" things we do that really don't make that much difference. We tend to take things to heart a little more than usual, but that is when we need to do exactly the opposite of how we are feeling. In fact, we need to learn not to take everything so seriously and laugh at ourselves even during difficult times.
A few weeks ago we found ourselves having our own tool mishap. Our beloved KC kitty was having another asthma attack. We administed her medicines and tried the inhaler but nothing was working this time. Hubby did mouth to mouth as I held her, but her tiny body did not respond and she went to Jesus in my arms almost immediately.
Hubby was experiencing pain from kidney stones again and was not up to what he needed to do for our sweet girl. The weather was brutal, cold and snowy with the ground frozen solid. For days we worked the land trying to dig a final resting place for KC. Losing daylight I held a flashlight for hubby as he dug and dug to no avail.
Suddenly the shovel broke and the end flew across the yard. We watched as it went into the air landing away from the dig site. Okay, it was dark ... but it went somewhere!
Turning to one another we began laughing ... now what are we going to do? ...oh Elisha ...
No, the situation did not change - it was a sad time with difficult circumstances, but our attitudes did and God worked everything out for our favor including Hubby passing a kidney stone and not needing surgery.
So,what is the point I am trying to make?
The lessons we can learn from Sarah and the prophet's ax head are that God does care about all the details, small or large, He is aware of our circumstances and in the midst of trouble God is always there with answers, even though they may seem strange, unlikely, impossible or humorous.
If we truly trust God and bring our cares to Him, He may provide or supply our need in surprising unusual ways of favor. Somewhere in it all there is something that will cause us to smile or laugh; not at the problem, but because God will come through with the solution and it might cause you to break out in laughter!
In the beginning there was unbelief, but in the end Sarah found laughter and new joy. The awkward flying ax story changed from a terrible unfortunate accident to a terrific impossible event that turned the prophet's crying into leaps of thankful joy.
The psalmist reminds us of God's promise when he triumphed over his enemies:
"Sing to the Lord, all you godly ones! Praise His Holy name. For His anger lasts only a moment, but His favor lasts a lifetime! Weeping may last through the night, but joy comes with the morning." (Psalm 30:4-5 NLT)
I do not know what you may be experiencing at this time, but encourage you not to give up on God - joy is coming! He holds nothing good back from you and is your hope of favor when faith seems weak.
"For the LORD God is a sun and shield; the LORD bestows (unique) favor and honor; no good thing does He withhold from those whose walk is blameless." (Psalm 84:11)
Like the anointed worship leader Don Moen wrote in an amazing song, "God will make a way, when there seems to be no way."
Believe God will do something new that will help you get through whatever it is by granting His unique favor to your situation as He did with Sarah and the perplexed prophet.
He will make a pathway to victory that you did not expect; it will cause joy and laughing to your spirit, soul and body. Then you will proclaim like Sarah, "God made me laugh!"
Until next time, favored blessings!
"Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." (1 Thessalonians 5:16-17)
Read Psalm 30 and Isaiah 43 promise for victory to a believer.
Maybe you don’t know the Living God that I know, but would like to have this kind of favor in your life also.Click on the above tab “Tell Me About Jesus” for more information on becoming a child of the Savior.
Original Songwriter: Don Moen; God Will Make A Way, Integrity'S Hosanna! Music
Content and Image Copyright from Favored1 unless noted. Do not copy.
Disclaimer Notes: Results may vary due to lack of belief.
Unless noted, scripture reference in series was taken from the New King James Bible Version provided by Bible Gateway. ImageCreative Common License if not specified. Photo by Favored1/Fay Ann Daniels
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Throughout scriptures we are told over and over not to
let the cares of this world cause our faith and testimony to be compromised in
how we react to situations. The way we respond shows the depth of our trust in
the One we call Lord and Savior.
If we act like the unbelieving world does in handling problems, they will have no reason to trust God for anything. Basically, without words we're really saying He isn't a powerful loving God and can't do squat!
With everything that's been happening in this world lately, it's hard focusing on the promises of God. Our thoughts continually try to take us off the Word, especially when the pressures of daily living are uncertain. We don't have to accept what the world says about our future! God has already given us His Word on what to do.
Philippians 4:6-7 reminds us not to be anxious, fret or worry over anything and to let the peace of God rule over our thoughts. We do this by going to the Lord in prayer and believing He will handle each request in a manner that best fits our need(s).
"Be anxious for nothing, 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 minds through Christ Jesus."
I would expect that means the little things as well, don't you? So, casting our cares on the Lord would be right in the middle of that mi I'd say!
"Casting all your cares (all your anxieties, all your worries, and all your concerns, once and for all) on Him, for He cares about you (with deepest affection, and watches over you very carefully)." (1 Peter 5:7 AMP)
Knowing that God has things under control with His peace and favor (not ours) surrounding us, we need to fervently guard our emotions when fear or anxiety tries to overtake us. Be encouraged my friend and rest (comfortably) in His ability to work things out for the good of those who love Him.
"And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose." (Romans 8:28 KJV)
Maybe
you don’t know the Living God that I know, but would like to have this kind of
favor in your life also. Click on the above tab “Tell Me About Jesus” for more information on
becoming a child of the Savior.
Content
and Image Copyright from Favored1. Do not copy.
Disclaimer
Notes: Results may vary due to lack of belief.
Unless noted,
scripture reference in series was taken from the New King James Bible Version
provided by Bible Gateway. Image Creative Common License if not
specified.
Be Anxious for
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Favor Teaching Blog
Have you ever gone through a period in life where nothing
seems to come together like you hoped for or planned? I’m pretty sure that we’ve all experienced
times like that, and we feel like if the Lord doesn’t intervene soon, we’re not
going to make it.
I took loads of deep breaths this week trying to hold
back my emotions, but to be honest, it was a stretch to say the least.Finally, my limits were about exhausted with
the rudeness of a woman in a parking lot and I was ready to come unglued!
Stuff Happens, It’s Called Life
You know, we all go through those days when we say “if
one more thing happens …”and then it
does!I know … I get it.Stuff happens, it’s called life.Well, during those times it’s not always easy
to remain calm and at peace while God works through us.Can I get a witness?
Perhaps, I need to back up a bit and fill you in on how I
almost reached that point of having to eat my words and losing my testimony.
Coming Unglued
If you’re a regular on my teaching blog, you already know
what’s been happening around my neck of the woods with hubby and daily living
by faith.Things have been somewhat
strained, but we’re striving with the help of the Lord and friends by holding
on to our confession for his healing.
The schedule has been busy, but for the most part there
has been progress. That’s when things started getting a little overwhelming and
before I knew it, I was the one in the cardiologist’s office.
About two weeks ago our refrigerator went on the blink
and we lost almost everything in it.These things happen I know, but this was the second time for this so
called “new” refrigerator we purchased in 2020.
Okay I thought, don’t panic … get some ice.Well, that’s what I did and we managed to
save a few items from the freezer in a cooler and unplugged the frig.
The same day the washer overflowed again, I stepped in
cat poo and spew, my shoe broke and I didn’t have another pair, because they’ve
all been glued so many times, they’re beyond wearing.
It’s not that I cannot get shoes, but it’s hard to find
them in my size without glitter, flashing lights or Disney characters on
them!Yes, I have small feet and not
many companies make women’s shoes in smaller sizes!One time I had to resort to kids shoes and
they came with cherry lip balm!Such
fun!
With so many businesses closing from COVID I had to make
other arrangements.No worries, God is
good! He allowed me to find shoes my
size online. Wow!I was so excited when they arrived, but unfortunately,
they didn’t fit.
Once more, no worries … they were returned by UPS right
away and I reordered another pair in the correct size. Alright – we’re making headway, just be
patient girl.
That night we had just gotten to bed around 2:30 a.m. after
cleaning up the messy refrigerator when my husband’s phone rang.It was the credit card company telling us
that our card was in question with fraudulent activity and it had been canceled
for our protection.They were extremely
kind as they reviewed the activity that had taken place and said the charges
would be removed.
In the meantime, the shoes I reordered earlier that day were
canceled by the company due to the card issue.
So, I went back to wearing my floppy glued shoes that came apart while I
was walking.
I Want to Go Home!
The next day we had to change my husband’s phone number
because of inappropriate calls that had been coming in for obviously the person
who had the number previously. I didn’t
mind for me, but with hubby’s difficulty to recall things his number was
something he actually remembered.
Throughout the week I listened to more and more biblical
teaching programs realizing that my patience and faith were being tested.Everyday something new would happen … not big
things always, but just enough to make you fly off the handle if someone said
boo.
I was finally able to get out and run errands. The only
issue here is that everywhere I go my husband has to go with me, so it’s hard
to get much accomplished.
With one last stop my husband wasn’t up to walking so he
asked if he could remain in the car.Normally he has to go inside to sit or use one of those mobile carts,
because it’s too hot to stay in a vehicle these days.
Since I only had one thing to get and it was right inside
the store doorway, I thought it would be fine and instructed him not to get out
of the automobile.He was still upset
from the last stop I made at the bank when he came inside practically in tears,
because he couldn’t remember how to use his phone.
As part of cognitive therapy, I’ve been helping him
relearn how to use the computer, review math, writing, memorization, and of
course, use his phone to make a simple call along with other life management
skills.Ordering a take-out pizza would
be an easy task normally, but for him it was confusing, even though he was
given the information to complete the assignment.
The bank teller was sympathetic as I assured hubby it was
fine and that we’d do it together in a few minutes.He was distraught and extremely upset with
himself, so on our last stop I didn’t want him to relive that experience.I agreed remaining in the car for a few
minutes was the right thing to do.
Watching him from the checkout, I quickly finished my
purchase and hurried out to the vehicle.Opening the door to get in, hubby kept saying “I want to go home.” Trying to get situated I assured him we would
soon be on our way.
Being in such a rush I tried to close my wallet but it
wouldn’t shut.Stepping out of the car
to give me more room, I leaned over the vehicle checking through my purse to
see if I lost anything in my madness to cram everything in at the check-out.
By now I was hot, exhausted, frustrated and had
difficulty catching my breath. Believe
me, I wanted to go home as much as my husband did.
Calgon, Take Me Away
At that moment I heard a loud, rather harsh voice ask me
if I could move and close the door so she could get into her truck.Turning around I saw an extremely annoyed
lady standing over me with a disgruntled look.
My first instinct was to blast her with a few intellectual
adjectives, but frankly I didn’t have the strength.Besides, who was I kidding, I wouldn’t have
said anything anyway.Crying is more my
style lately, but this time it was the inner voice of the Holy Spirit that kept
me from reacting in my overtired state.
In a low tone, I apologized and did as she asked.Straight away she got into her vehicle,
leaned over from the passenger’s side and turned on the engine so she could sit
in the air conditioning.
What was the big deal I thought, she wasn’t going
anywhere?She could have easily gone on
the other side an entered her vehicle from the front. Couldn’t she tell I was
frazzled? You might have thought the bedraggled
hairdo I was sporting, with sweat dripping from my face would have given her a
clue something wasn’t exactly right.Oh,
Calgon, take me away!
He’s Working It Out for Our Good
Let’s face it, not everything in life is going to work
out the way we planned or hoped. We
don’t always get the breaks we hoped for, but life isn’t supposed to be placed
on hold because of some set-backs. Hey, like
I said, that’s why they call it “life” and sometimes simply living can take a
toll on us if we forget God has allowed these tests/trials for a reason.
“Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try
you, as though some strange thing happened to you.” (1 Peter 4:12)
From the beginning of Creation, God planned for us to experience
good things through His loving favor, but it is coupled with how we handle situations
both good and bad. Have we held our
tongue during those moments of temptation? Did our faith override carnal feelings allowing
God to work things out for our good in His timing?
“In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little
while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, that the
genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes,
though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the
revelation of Jesus Christ …” (1 Peter 1:6-7)
Our faith is so precious to the Lord that it is valued
more than anything else, and satan knows that. If we cave on the small stuff, then he already
knows he can trap us when it comes to big decisions. So, we shouldn’t be surprised when a test (or
two or ten …) passes our way, especially on days when we have about reached our
limit on how much more we think we can bear before blowing our testimony!
Steadfast: Loyal, Unwavering, Unmovable
Through all the tests and trials we experience, God is
looking for something special about our faith.He wants to see steadfastness – that is, a faith that is loyal,
unwavering and unmovable even during the hard stuff.
We learn in the Old Testament of the Bible how King David
was aware of his own behavior during stressful times and what he did to rectify
the situation.He had no problem calling
out to the LORD to help him remain steadfast, requesting a “Calgon” calming moment
of “cleanliness” to the heart when responding to adverse situations.
“Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit
within me.” (Psalm 51:10 NKJV)
You see, we have to remember that God isn’t a “deal maker”,
but a promise keeper.He will uphold
those who are steadfast to Him through rough times and be there through every
test, trial or tribulation.
The Lord isn’t watching us and saying, “You messed up so
the deal is off”.We’re humans that have
fallen from grace … he KNOWS we’re going to get things wrong and miss it
sometimes, that’s why we need His unmerited grace and favor every single day of
our lives.
God isn’t looking for perfect people, but repenting
people with unwavering faith He can reward.He notices when we remain faithful to His Word by not coming unglued
when the devil tries to get us to fall from His grace (favor).It demonstrates that we believe what He says
regardless to how things look at the moment.
“Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable,
always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in
vain in the Lord.”(1 Corinthians 15:58
NKJV)
A Change of Heart
The day came to a close taking care of hubby, the rescues
and whatever else that needed tending to before retiring in the wee hours of
the morning.Crawling into bed I grabbed
my Bible to read and pray, making sure my last waking moments of the day were
spent with the Lord.
Instead of asking if I pleased the Lord in how I lived my
life today, it went something like this …
“Lord, I am embarrassed by my behavior and failure to
trust in Your faithfulness during this testing period.You already know how I feel and what I will
encounter throughout the day.
You have promised not to leave or forsake me, but guide
me to a good path and victory.I am
humbled by Your never-ending mercy and favor.
Thank You Holy Spirit for leading me in the right
direction so I did not sin against God.For
continually reminding me of Your truth … calming me down and creating a new
heart in me to show compassion for others not knowing what they too could be
facing in life.
You are my joy and strength when I am weak, loving me
through it all….”
It’s easy to lash out, question and doubt God when we’re
at our wits end, “Why Lord would You bring me here to this place where I feel I
can’t handle it and am overwhelmed?”Here’s
the reason. It’s not about me (or you) but
those we’ve somehow connected with, so they can see the favor and treasures God
had in store for those who remained steadfast and faithful to the end.
God expects us to give an account of what we’ve done for
His Son, the Savior that loved us so much that He gave His life on the Cross that
we might live in Heaven with Him one day.He knows we get tired, weary, discouraged and downhearted. God is not oblivious to what’s going on in our
lives and doesn’t judge when we’ve fallen, but looks beyond human weaknesses
waiting for us to ask for His help.
Christ invites us to come to Him for rest, a breather so
to speak when we feel we can’t walk one more step.He wants us to lean on Him not only during
the difficult times when we’re about to come unglued, but all the time.
“Come to Me, all you who are tired from labor and
carrying heavy burdens (overburdened), and I will cause you to rest relieving
and easing your burdens, refreshing your soul.” (taken from Matthew 11:28 emphasis
mine)
The following evening, we decided to plug in the refrigerator
to see what would happen.Several hours
went by and praise the Lord – it started getting cold!It was working!How about that?!
Wonder what happened with the shoe issue?My feet are strutting a pair of new white
shoes – without glitter or flashing lights!
My husband is doing better in his cognitive training, and
managing phone skills better.As for my heart,
both spiritually and physically are in good order!
When It’s All Been Said and Done
Friends, we’re never going to escape every problem we
encounter, that’s just the way it is.How we prepare, plan, preserver and pursue the Lord is key to receiving
His Divine unmerited grace, mercy and daily favor.
Do people notice that when things get rough, I serve a
God of Truth who remains faithful to His promises?Can they see His unmerited favor on my life
because of steadfastness to His commands?
Am I worthy of the call on my life? Are my words or actions said and done in love
so that they draw people to Jesus?Do I
reflect the ways of this world by becoming unglued and not standing the test or
trial, looking to a type of “Calgon” for the rest I need for a weary soul?
In the end, when it’s all been said and done, Jesus isn’t
going to ask whether I accomplished everything on my to-do list or was nice to
everyone I met … that’s why there is forgiveness.He won’t care how many viewed my blog posts
or wonder how many followers I have on social media.
There won’t be any hype or fame from the riches I’ve
gained nor praises over what was achieved.No indeed … but one day He will ask how did my life testify of His love as
my Lord and Savior so that it converted sinners into Saints.
What do you think He’ll ask you?
When It's All Been Said and Done (Robin Mark)
Until next time, steadfastly walk in God’s favor.
My steadfast love never ceases, my mercy and favor are new every morning! - Jesus
What’s New This Week: We have a few. Click on the link below.
Unglued: Making Wise Choices in the Midst of Raw Emotions by Lysa TerKeurst
Maybe you don’t know the Living God that I know, but would like to have this kind of favor in your life also.Click on the above tab “Tell Me” for more information on becoming a child of the Savior.
Content and Image Copyright from Fay Ann Daniels aka Favored1. Do not copy.
Disclaimer Notes: Results may vary due to lack of belief.
Unless noted, scripture reference is taken from the New
King James Bible Version provided by Bible Gateway. ImageImage 2Inage 3Image 4 Creative
Common License if not specified.
Labels: Coming Unglued, Steadfastness, Stress, Trials, Tribulation,
Faithfulness, Promises of God, Favor, God’s Promises, Weary, Burdens, Prayer, Fay
Ann Daniels, Daily Favor Blog, Where Faith and Favor Meet, Favored1, Prayer.
