I will share about Christian books I have read or listened to.
I will be sharing about my life before and after Christ. I will include stories about my pet and other pets I have encountered.
Walking Through Trials
Let's start by debunking a myth: Nowhere in Scripture does God promise us a perfect life, free from troubles. In fact, many times in the Bible, Christ-followers find themselves persecuted, under attack, or facing trouble of all kinds.
In a letter from James to first-century believers, James informs them about the various trials that they will experience in life:
"Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him."
James 1:12 NIV
When we see trials as a means of becoming more like Jesus, then we’ll be blessed by them.
Maybe you can think back to a difficult season of life. Looking back, you might be able to point out how God refined you coming out of it. God is often at work behind the scenes deepening our character and enlarging our capacity, even when we don't see it.
Maybe you're going through one of those difficult seasons right now. Take this passage to heart! You can stand firm and persevere—knowing there is a promised reward in heaven. While rewards on this side of heaven are not promised, looking towards our final destination with Jesus gives us hope to endure the trials in the present.
If you’re walking through a difficult season of life, spend some time meditating on the promises of God. He promises to never abandon you or leave you, but to walk alongside you through trials. And at the end of the trial, you’ll be more like Christ.
Take a moment to thank God for His faithfulness and love in your life.
A Cup Overflowing with Blessings
As Psalm 23 comes to a close, the psalmist paints a scene that is both dynamic and ironic: a lavish banquet is prepared right in front of his enemies.
Imagine God laying out a feast before you in the presence of adversity and fear. God gives abundantly in the middle of hardship. “You anoint my head with oil,” the psalmist adds, “my cup overflows.”
Anointing with oil demonstrates divine favor and strength. It's like a warrior receiving a blessing before battle. Every obstacle and doubt are met with God's presence. The psalmist’s cup isn’t just full, it’s running over! In God, we have blessings that joyfully spill over into the lives of others.
The psalmist concludes with wholehearted trust:
"Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”
Psalm 23:6
God's goodness and love are our constant companions, following us everywhere we go. God’s goodness and love surround us...
