The Word - Jan. 24, 2012 - God's Purpose In Life's Storm

"So be truly glad. There is wonderful joy ahead, even though you have to endure many trials for a little while. These trials will show that your faith is genuine." (1 Peter 1:6).

Believers in Christ have a choice about how to respond to life's trials. Either they can try to blame someone and become resentful and bitter, or they can turn to the Lord and ask, "What is Your Purpose?"

So, are you faced with a challenge? Are there people or circumstances that seem to be against you, in relationships, or your walk with the Lord? Regardless of the trial, if you want to experience victory over any difficulty, the only way is by spending time alone with God. We can only experience the victory through Him!

When a storm rages into our life, the Lord is already planning how to turn what seems destructive into something good. In order to discover God's will in the trial, we need to seek His objective and learn to work with Him to achieve it. We must believe that "in all things God works for the good of those who love Him" (Romans 8:28). The promise contained in that verse is that we will receive blessings out of that which seems to be a loss.

How do you fight the battle? First, by setting aside time to be alone with God. Fall to your knees and be alone with the One who loves you completely. It is so easy to be distracted when conflicts arise. You can become so busy trying to find a solution, you fail to turn to the One who can best help you (Psalm 103:19).

Second, listen quietly to the Father and wait for Him to speak to you. There is a great deal more to prayer than just informing God how you feel, although that must be part of it. Rather, He desires to reveal Himself to you and direct you in the proper response to the trial.

Third, if the Lord reveals any sinfulness in your life, repent immediately. The Father's desire is to have an intimate relationship with you. When sin of any kind is present, you are hindering Him from coming close in fellowship.

Fourth, remember there can only be one commander in whatever the battle may be,....and that is the Lord! God is waiting to employ His power in defending you, training you, and bringing you to your full potential for His glory and your joy!

Finally, see everything that happens to you as being permitted by a loving Heavenly Father. Why should you do this? Because if He permits a trial or challenge in your life, it is for your ultimate good and His glory.

The truth is, we are always going to encounter struggles in life until He takes us home. Just remember this: "No weapon that is formed against you will prosper; and every tongue that accuses you in judgment you will condemn. This is the heritage of those who love the Lord, and their vindication is from Me!" (Isaiah 54: 17). When you fight your battles on your knees and faithfully obey Him, you invite God to be in charge as your defender. THAT IS NOT ONLY THE BEST WAY TO WIN, IT IS THE ONLY WAY!