Tag Archives: trouble

June 6
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“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33, NIV)

The disciple of Jesus should fear only one thing: The displeasure of his or her heavenly Father.

Our world is a marketplace of fear and trouble.  If we forget for even a moment that God is bigger than any trouble or peril we shall ever face in our lifetime, we will lose heart.

Jesus has plainly told us that we will face trouble in this world, so any trouble we encounter should not come as a surprise.  He has also told us that we should not fear or lose heart: “I have overcome the world.”

Face each day with this confidence!  – Luther

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March 24
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“Is anyone among you in trouble? Let them pray. ” (James 5:13a, NIV)

Prayer is not the first resource for many of us when we encounter trouble — although we keep it in reserve as a “last resort.” We want first to get free of trouble with our own resources (e. g. intelligence, cunning, friends, wealth. . .).

For the disciple of Jesus, our heavenly Father is not just our first resource, He is our only resource!

Trouble both hunts and haunts all of humanity.  Don’t be surprised when it comes.  However, when we run first to God, we will be amazed at how quickly trouble passes; and at our composure during the ordeal.  – Luther

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September 6
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“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.” (2 Corinthians 1:3-4, NIV)

The comfort and compassion available to us for use when helping others is as powerful, as resilient, and as timely as what we’ve received from God when we ourselves have been troubled. 

In fact, what we receive today fills our reservoir for service to others tomorrow.  God does, indeed, reach-down to bring us up; but God also employs His willing children to come alongside to bring us along. When we are faithful to reach-out, to reach-over, or to reach-back for others, it is not only our own power that strengthens our grip; it is the power of God through us!

Never hesitate to go where God has ordered; or to serve where God has placed you. We are His hands and His arms to those in distress.  – Luther

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