Scripture:
[1] God is our refuge and strength,
a very present help in trouble.
[2] Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way,
though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea,
[3] though its waters roar and foam,
though the mountains tremble at its swelling.
Observation:
God is ALWAYS in control. He was in control yesterday, He is in control today, and He will be in control tomorrow. He is in control of literally everything from the very breath we breathe to the finely tuned alignment of planets in the universe enabling life on earth. If we know this, what is there to fear? There is no reason to fear it – the economy, a virus, a family matter.. If we know that “it”, whatever “it” is, is part of God’s plan for us, for our families, for our country.. why do we fear?
Application:
We believe God is in control and that He loves us, but even knowing that we sometimes go to a place where we think the troubles we are going through, or the troubles our country is going through, are bigger than God.
In turbulent times we have a tendency to rely on other gods. We rely on our money, our government, our intellect, or whatever it is, expecting to ease our suffering. Not to say that we should not USE strength in government, intellect, money, or any other tools, and gifts the Lord has given us, but we should not rely wholly on them. We can rest on the strength of God and find peace knowing that nothing surprises Him. He is always in control and it, whatever it is, is part of His plan.
God allows the turbulence in our lives to build us up. Similar to a tree needing wind to build strong roots, we need trouble to build character. Rom 5:3-4 “Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, [4] and endurance produces character, and character produces hope..”
Whether it be real or manufactured crisis with social issues, government, family, sickness, or whatever.. while going through the trials is not fun, these things build our character and ultimately produce hope, if we fall back on God’s love for us and know that the Holy Spirit lives within us.
Prayer:
Lord build me up. Give me wisdom to help me navigate the storms of life. Help me endure the suffering, knowing that You are in control and have great plans for those who seek You with all their heart. My trust and hope is in You Lord. In Jesus mighty name I pray, amen.