My goal today is to encourage you, so that in whatever situation you find yourself in today or maybe some day in the future, you will always be assured the Lord is right there with you. Even if you find yourself in a dark place, facing enemies, facing death. He is with you. “There is no pit so deep, that God’s love is not deeper still.” ― Corrie Ten Boom
Ps 20:7 Some trust in chariots, and some in horses; but we will remember the name of the Lord our God.
So many people today are afraid, afraid to die or get sick, afraid of what will happen to them, afraid to be alone, afraid of the dark, afraid of sickness.
Some put their faith in technology, some in medicine or doctors, and some put their faith in government or family. It is better to put your faith in the Name of the Lord, or more specifically: Trust in God’s goodness. I know He loves me. I know He is good for me. He saved me from hell, forgave my debts, shame, and guilt.
Rom 8:35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? 36 As it is written, “For Your sake, we are killed all day long;
We are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.” 37 Yet in all these things, we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. 38 For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, 39 nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
If I use the literal meaning of some of these words, it says, No pressure, affliction, anguish, burden, persecution, trouble, tough place, calamity, hunger, or danger will separate me from the love of God.
Psalms 27: The Lord is my light and my salvation; Whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life;
Of whom shall I be afraid?
13 I would have lost heart (I would have fainted), unless I had believed that I would see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. 14 Wait on the Lord; be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart; Wait, I say, on the Lord!
Psalms 23:4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.
6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; and I will dwell in the house of the Lord.
Forever.
Let’s focus on the goodness of God, knowing He is for you, and He is with you. He is your best Friend.
Ps 46:1 God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble.
Gratitude and focusing on the goodness of God, go hand in hand. It is so easy to focus on the problems we face, get a negative attitude, and start voicing them. Complaining can lead to spiritual stagnation, while gratitude fosters growth and contentment. We are encouraged to remember and declare God’s works, not just to ourselves but to the next generation, ensuring that His deeds are not forgotten.
In our relationships, gratitude helps us appreciate and value others, strengthening our bonds. We are called to express our gratitude openly, through words, songs, and testimonies, creating a positive and hopeful atmosphere. There is a great danger in complaining and great strength in gratitude and praise.
- **The Power of Gratitude**: Gratitude shifts our focus from what we lack to what we have, fostering a heart of contentment and joy. It transforms our perspective, making us more resilient and appreciative of God’s blessings, both big and small. By practicing gratitude, we align our hearts with God’s goodness and open ourselves to His continued blessings.
- **The Dangers of Complaining**: Complaining can lead to spiritual stagnation and a negative outlook on life. It blinds us to God’s blessings and hinders our spiritual growth. Instead, we should cultivate a heart of thanksgiving, focusing on God’s goodness and the many ways He has blessed us.
- **Expressing Gratitude in Relationships**: Gratitude enhances our relationships by helping us appreciate and value others. When we express our thankfulness for the qualities and actions of those around us, it strengthens our bonds and fosters a positive and supportive environment.
- **Remembering and Declaring God’s Works**: It is essential to remember and declare God’s works, not just for our benefit but for the next generation. By sharing testimonies of God’s faithfulness, we inspire others and ensure that His deeds are not forgotten. This practice reinforces our faith and encourages us to trust in God’s continued provision.
