Circumstances around us

Today's sermon was powerful. Pastor Dave talked about what God is saying through our circumstances. Just a note, his talk on Shoutlouder on Friday night was also powerful.

Right, on with today's sermon. According to Pastor Dave, there are 4 different things that God may be saying to us through our circumstances. The first, nothing. It could just be a phase we are going through, one of those things that we commonly refer to as, "that's life". These circumstances help us grow up. It can even lead us to the ultimate leap of faith; willing to die for Him.

God could also be telling us that it's the time to take the greatest care for the devil is nearby. Satan strikes along fault lines. He searches out chinks in our armour and continuously attacks us through those. So in those times, we have to be really aware of what we should and should not do. Also, listen carefully because the devil may try to tempt us or make his lies sound like the truths. Verse to remember: Ephesians 6:13-18.

The third thing God could be trying to tell us is that we reap what we sow. There is a verse that are related, Galatians 6:7-9

Anyone who receives instruction in the word much share all good things with his
instructor. Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.
The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature will reap
destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap
eternal life. Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we
will reap a harvest if we do not give up.

The simple message is that Heaven is always the dominating force. So, if we want good things in life, we have to sow good seeds at all times. Note, not once in a while, ALL times.

The last thing that God might be doing through our circumstances is testing our faith. (Job comes into mind) You might even say it's like an examination from heaven (we just can't run away from exams, can we?). In fact, most of the time, Satan is used by God to tempt us, break us to test how much faith do we have in Him. Related verse: James 1:2-4

Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds,
because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance.
Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not
lacking anything.

The last words make a powerful point, mature and complete, not lacking anything. So note that it's when we go through trials and problems that we are really going on our way towards being a complete person, someone we want to be. So in reality, there is no shortcut to success.

I read somewhere once that only dead people have no problems. So, be thankful you have them because it means you are alive and that God is working in your life to make you a better person!

On a final note, a phrase Pastor Dave used for Shoutlouder and morning services has become my watch word this week.

Strength supersedes power.