May the Words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O Lord, My Rock and My Redeemer.
Psalms 19: 14
What do we do when we have a trial? For many of us, myself included, we may be tempted to wallow in despair, or become fearful and/or feel immobilized to one degree or another. After reading and studying the Word of God for a short time, I've come to the conclusion that there is a way to endure a trial, God's way. It is possible to know the Lord as "My Rock", like the psalmist says. But, how are we to endure a trial with grace? That is the question of the day, and I'd like to suggest there are things we can do from a proactive stance that will help us during our time(s) of testing. Then, we too, can say like the psalmist, My Lord, My Rock and My Redeemer.
So how do I know the Lord as My Rock during trial(s)?
First of all, I must think correctly, and think biblically. The TRUTH is that God is sovereign. We need to know that in our gut that God is sovereign. God is in control. God is faithful. I can know that there is light at the end of the tunnel. A trial (typically?) is for a season, hopefully, not a lifetime. Also, true is that God is GOOD.
Secondly, there are a variety of things I recommend we do while we are enduring a trial of any sort. Stay in the Word. Stay in Prayer. Keep our focus on God. Know that God is GOOD!!!!! Focus on God's goodness especially while going through these trials!!! Continue reading Joel Osteen's book, "Become a Better You". It is biblical, positive and upbeat. Ask God's people for prayer. Serve. Give to others. Sing a worship song to the Lord.
Finally, if (or when) I don't measure up as I am going through a trial, rather than beating myself up I will tell myself to "try better next time". There's no sense in adding sorrow upon sorrow to my trials.
I'd like to end today's message with an old hymn (song, author unknown):
The words go like this:
Oh Lord, my Rock, and my Redeemer,
I lift my soul to You in praise
For you are Most High
Above all the earth
My King
My God
