“At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another. But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life.” -Titus 3:3-7 NIV
Will you praise God no matter what comes in your life? Everyday we see on the news, people who have lost all of their worldly possessions because of tornadoes, floods, or some violent weather occurrence. Right now, we see numerous deaths daily due to the Covid virus. We live in a world of destruction, decay and loss all because of the day when sin entered into this world. There is hope, 1 Peter 1:6-7 "So be truly glad. There is wonderful joy ahead, even though you must endure many trials for a little while. These trials will show that your faith is genuine. It is being tested as fire tests and purifies gold—though your faith is far more precious than mere gold. So when your faith remains strong through many trials, it will bring you much praise and glory and honor on the day when Jesus Christ is revealed to the whole world."
God told us that trials would be part of our earthly lives, but we could have peace thru those trials by remaining in Him through faith and trust. John 16:31-33 “"Do you now believe?" Jesus replied. A time is coming and in fact has come when you will be scattered, each to your own home. You will leave me all alone. Yet I am not alone, for my Father is with me. “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.” Jesus questioned his disciples true faith, even tho he knew he would be betrayed. Jesus was comforted thru His trials and sufferings, because he knew God was always with him. "Those that converse with God in solitude are never less alone than when alone. A good God and a good heart are good company at any time." [M. Henry]
"We are more than conquerors through him that loved us."
As for myself, I've had the fullest life. The house, the spouse, the job, the probs, the cars, the travels, the marriage, the divorce, the strength and the definite weaknesses. Yes, I have once been strong enough on my own, before my disease made me completely dependent on others. Yes, I will praise God on the mountain and in the valley because He is always with me. He has allowed much to be taken, but has left plenty to praise Him with. Nothing will separate me from His love...nothing!
