God’s Provisions in Adversity - God doesn’t necessarily keep believers from distress or disappointment. Stopping the storms may be our goal, but the adversity may be necessary to mature us spiritually. The Father stays with us in the struggle, and nothing can separate us from His love. God walks with us through the hardships, providing guidance and speaking truth into the situation. While difficulties cause many people anxiety, God’s peace is available to us. As we recognize the Lord’s provision during trials, we can genuinely express gratitude. Doing so will enable us to fix our eyes on Him rather than on our circumstance. As unpleasant as trials are, there’s still reason for giving thanks

"And we urge you, brothers, admonish the idle, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with them all. 

"See that no one repays anyone evil for evil, but always seek to do good to one another and to everyone. 

"Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." - 1 Thessalonians 5:14-18 English Standard Version

Jesus told us that we would have hardships (John 16:33), and He was right, wasn’t He? 

As unpleasant as trials are, there’s still reason for giving thanks. 

Protection 

God doesn’t necessarily keep believers from distress or disappointment. 

Stopping the storms may be our goal, but from His point of view, the adversity may be necessary to mature us spiritually. 

However, the Father offers protection by staying with us in the struggle. 

What’s more, we have assurance that nothing can separate us from His love (Romans 8:38-39). 

So, our ever-present God walks with us through the hardships, providing guidance and speaking truth into the situation.

Peace

While difficulties cause many people anxiety, God’s peace is available to us. 

This serenity does not depend on whether circumstances improve. 

Rather, it’s a result of our relationship with Him. 

Our main focus shouldn’t be on fixing the problem; rather, we should seek and trust the Lord.

As we recognize the Lord’s provision during trials, we can genuinely express gratitude. 

Doing so will enable us to fix our eyes on Him rather than on our circumstance. 

While we often aren’t aware of the purpose for each trial facing us, we do know that God is trustworthy and good — and He won’t waste our suffering.

Bible in One Year: Amos 5-9

Charles Stanley

Charles Frazier Stanley Jr. (September 25, 1932 – April 18, 2023) was an American Southern Baptist pastor and writer. He was senior pastor of First Baptist Church in Atlanta for 49 years and took on emeritus status in 2020. He founded and was president of In Touch Ministries which widely broadcasts his sermons through television and radio. He also served two one-year terms as president of the Southern Baptist Convention, from 1984 to 1986.

In Touch Ministries

intouch.org

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