Here Today, Gone Tomorrow

Philippians 4:12-13 (NIV) 
I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength.

How many of us can relate to these words: "I know what it means to be in need?” We all have seasons when we struggled. These struggles took many forms - financial, health, relationships, or even faith. Losing a job is devastating, and hearing a terminal diagnosis stops us in our tracks. Hearts are broken when relationships shatter. Even our faith is put to the test.

Then there are those times of plenty, when life is smooth and flowing steady. Money is not an issue and giving comes more naturally.  Our health problems have been cured, the relationship mountain has been scaled and our faith is flourishing.

For many, faith grows when faced with the stark facts of life, and they turn to God for deliverance. Where do you find yourself these days? Are you in the midst of unimaginable grief and pain?  Or is this a season that you are feeling free spirited and excited about tomorrow?

We know that where ever we find ourselves today, tomorrow it might be totally different. But, with faith we will be okay.  With faith, tomorrow could be a turning point. If you have plenty, share with those who don't. If you find yourself needing a hand, don't be afraid to take reach out and take it.

Philippians 4:10-19

Life According to Your Word

Psalm 119:25-32 (MSG) 
  I'm feeling terrible—I couldn't feel worse! Get me on my feet again.

You promised, remember?

My heart turns to you, God and I cry out that I need help once again. I am in trouble, the rent is due, I can't find a job, and the diagnosis is terminal.

   When I told my story, you responded; train me well in your deep wisdom.

I told you my troubles, I explained my situation to you even though I knew you already were aware of my pain.  You promised me you would listen and so I tell you every day about my life; praying for Your intercession.

   Help me understand these things inside and out 

so I can ponder your miracle-wonders.

You have said that I only need to pray for wisdom, for the Holy Spirit to come and He will be there to give me knowledge and discernment. The Bible is not a book of rules - of does and don'ts, but a road map to Your arms.

 My sad life's dilapidated, a falling-down barn; build me up again by your Word.

I will cling to your Word, call upon it in times of despair and I will find peace. You promised that to me God and I am calling in that promise. 

   Barricade the road that goes nowhere; grace me with your clear revelation.

Use your Word to fill me up. Your word is a lamp that lights the way and shines on the paths I must take to find help. 

 I choose the true road to Somewhere,

I post your road signs at every curve and corner.

Praise You God! When I learn your way, when I am conscience of right and wrong and choose wisely I am not stopped by guilt or shame. The road to you is a direct path to joy.

   I grasp and cling to whatever you tell me; GOD, don't let me down!

I am hanging on your every Word God; fill me up.

   I'll run the course you lay out for me if you'll just show me how.

Just show me Your will for my life and I will live it.

Psalm 119:25-32

1 Thessalonians 4:13-5:11

1 Thessalonians 4:14 (NIV)
  We believe that Jesus died and rose again and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him. 

This is one of the most comforting verses in the Bible.  When a loved one struggles with illness or a tragic accident takes a life there is such grief, but there is also hope. When my husband's illness was diagnosed as terminal, he and I had numerous conversations around this promise.  We both drew comfort from the fact we may have to say goodbye in this world but we would be reunited again.

You might think these empty words but many Believers who have lost someone will tell you they are mighty big words to them.  One of the reasons to read from our Bible's every day is to grab hold of God's promises and cling to them when times are hurtful and puzzling.  Every day God speaks through His Word.

Just this morning I was reading from Psalm 37 and sensed God's presence.  "Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart.  Commit your way to the LORD; trust in Him and he will do this."

What words spoke to your heart this day?

Read 1 Thessalonians 4:13-5:11

Listen 1 Thessalonians 4:13-5:11