Tag Archives: be patient in tribulation

When the Conductor Arrives

In the absence of leadership, chaos often ensues.  Subsequently, if you want to get from point A to point B, you need to wait for a guide who you can trust.  While some grow impatient choosing someone without proven experience, the faithful wait it out despite the uncertainty.  Time has a way of straightening out unanswered questions, revealing glimpses of God’s providence.

The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps, Proverbs 16:9.

Without God’s direction, anyone can wander far from the life the Lord designed for you.  For reasons unknown, trials come and go unannounced, wearing on souls who are put through a series of tests.  In some ways, these unpleasant experiences serve as a way to nudge individuals closer to God’s will.  Yet, in trying to comprehend the whys, putting the pieces together to life’s mysteries, some lose faith.

And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose, Romans 8:28.

One of the roles Jesus plays is a conductor, leading his lost sheep in the right direction.  Like a maestro, God has a way of taking average people and bringing them together to make amazing music.  Unfortunately, when things don’t go your way, its hard to see God’s hand at work.  Thus, its vital to keep in step with the Holy Spirit, Galatians 5:25, ready to jump on the train to heaven when the conductor arrives.

by Jay Mankus

 

As Good as Dead

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LGlmzncPd4Q

There are moments in life when things look bleak.  Whether you are talking about a career, health or someone’s future, everyone will face times of uncertainty.  When you reach this point, you have two logical options, resign yourself to giving up hope or keep fighting.

And so from this one man, and he as good as dead, came descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky and as countless as the sand on the seashore, Hebrews 11:12.

Some of the classic action films in Hollywood lure possess numerous situations when the star should die.  Yet, somehow, someway, this character escapes death time after time.  While these scenes don’t portray an accurate view of real life, they do point to an invisible source called faith.  A hope that keeps many going despite feeling as good as dead.

Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer, Romans 12:12.

Abraham and the apostle Paul both found themselves in circumstances where each thought they were on the verge of death.  According to the author of Hebrews, Abraham leaned on a promise from God, to be a father of a great nation.  Meanwhile, as Paul faced threats on his life from jealous Jewish officials, Paul turned to prayer.  Therefore, whether your health or life is failing you, turn to the promises of the Bible and prayer to keep hope alive.

by Jay Mankus