Tag Archives: trouble

March 30
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“Is anyone happy?  Let them sing songs of praise.”  (James 5:13b, NIV)
James reminds us that the rhythm of a disciple’s life is not all labor and toil.  There are many periods of happiness and joy.
As we ought to run to God when trouble arrives, we ought also to give thanks to God when our path is smooth, the weather is fair, and our neighbors are at peace with us.
The natural person attributes the presence of these things to many sources other than to God: Luck, one’s knowledge or skill, or the favor of others.  The disciple sees only God (even when God is acting through others) as the source of all blessings.
James recommends this response: Praise God in song.  Indeed, “praise God from Whom all blessings flow; praise Him all creatures here below. . . ”  – Luther
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March 29
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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 haunts all of humanity.  Don’t be surprised when it comes.  However, when we run to God, we will be amazed at how quickly the storm passes, and at our composure during the ordeal.  – Luther
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June 28
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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.  However, 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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