Category Archives: Spiritual Endurance

The Theology of Suffering: Purpose and Possibilities, Part 2

October 11, 2022 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

Just the Facts

We understand that suffering is a part of life. As we know, suffering is not part of God’s original divine plan but is a result of sin. Because of that, Christians acknowledge that we live in a sinful, “fallen world.” As believers, our response to suffering—pain, distress, and hardship—is shaped by two key factors. First, our trust in God (Ps. 62:5-8) and secondarily, our Christian worldview (Eccl. 9:11).

An “enlightened” response

The Bible also informs our response to suffering. Although it offers no “magic pill” to overcome pain and distress, it does reveal how God operates on our behalf during difficult times (2 Cor. 1:3-5). Jesus demonstrated how man can operate knowing he will suffer. For Jesus, suffering was needful and “purposeful” (Heb. 2:10). It resulted in the salvation of mankind and the elimination of the power of sin (Heb. 2:14-15). In His suffering and death, Jesus modelled for us His trust in and obedience to God.

How we choose to respond to our suffering will determine its purpose and possibility in our life. As I said earlier, our response to suffering can either make us “better or bitter”, it all depends on our trust in God and our worldview. These create an enlightened, faith-based response.

Better or bitter?

In 2010, a well-known Bible teacher and speaker, Joni Eareckson Tada was diagnosed with breast cancer. The thing that made this news so heart wrenching for me was the fact that Joni had for the last 43 years lived as a quadriplegic—and now this? Questions raced in my mind. “How much suffering can a person take?” She dedicated her life to Christ and helping others—and now this? The old cliché came to mind. “Why do bad things happen to good people?” Can any good come from suffering?

Certain types of suffering may result from our own wrong choices or because of the wrong choices and acts of others. But regardless of the cause (sin), it is our personal response that really matters. A faith-based response will not only enable us to cope during the suffering but also rekindle our hope (2 Cor. 4:7-9). It will also strengthen our resolve and build our resiliency (2 Cor. 4:15-17).

Suffering—purpose and possibility

Our suffering is purposeful. As a ship is proven seaworthy by the beating of the waves and the whipping of the winds, likewise, our suffering aids us in becoming mature Christians.

The Apostle Peter states that after we have “suffered a while, we will be perfect, established, strengthened and settled” (1 Pet. 5:10). Paul eloquently witnessed to the value of his many suffering experiences and the future reward of his obedience and faith: “I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us” (Rom. 8:18).

How we respond to suffering is a witness to the power of God and His sustaining Presence (The Holy Spirit) in our life. It will result in His praise, honor, and glory (1 Pet. 1:6-7).

Our suffering offers possibilities. Possibilities is defined as “unspecified qualities of a promising nature”. In Latin, possibilis means “able to be done.” All things are possible, even in the midst of suffering, if we build our full reliance and trust in God. Is anything, including our suffering, too hard for God? (Jer. 32:27)

Possibilities build our hope. As Christ trusted Himself to His Father, so should we believers commit ourselves to our faithful Creator (1 Pet. 4:19). He remains our strong tower and defense regardless of the challenges we face. In addition, our hope is anchored in the firm expectation that we will reign in heaven with Christ (2 Tim. 2:12). We are to fix our eyes on Christ and the future He has for us, even though we may suffer all kinds of trials in these present times (2 Cor. 4:17-18).

Can any good come from suffering?

What would Joni Eareckson Tada say? How would the Apostles Paul and Peter respond? If we read their writings, we’d find they would answer yes. Why would they respond in that manner? Because they had developed the right theology of suffering.

That theology was not based on their current condition (suffering) but on their trust in God and their Kingdom worldview. We are told that in everything we are to give thanks (1 Thess. 5:18). That includes our suffering. We know that in that suffering experience we are guaranteed the presence of God to sustain us and the exceeding promise of His glory, both now and in the future.

Next week, we will conclude our study on suffering by answering this question, “Where is God in suffering?”

Spiritual Endurance

Our Theology of Suffering: Purpose and Possibilities, Part 1

October 4, 2022 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

Why suffering?

Pain and suffering have been themes for many great philosophers. But when we enter a time of suffering, all the wisest speculation of the philosophers seeing empty and meaningless. We simply hurt. And the mystery as to why we experience suffering often remains shrouded and hidden.

Beginning with Adam and Eve, human beings have suffered because of their wrong choices AND/OR because of the wrong choices and acts of others. As we shared earlier, suffering is the natural consequence of sin and therefore, an integral part of the human experience.

Biblical perspective of human suffering

Unlike the ancient Greek Stoics who viewed suffering as a man’s fate in an impersonal universe, the Bible affirms a world ordered by a personal God.

In the Old Testament suffering is set in the context of morality and the divine purpose. There is no hint of chance or fate. From a morality standpoint, suffering is a consequence of sin. God establishes a moral order in creation and retribution is metered out in life experiences.

Pain and suffering are concepts that draw attention to how human beings are affected by the tragedies of life. It is not the loss of a home or a loved one, nor physical agony, that seems devastating. It is how such an experience affects us within, causing doubts and fears and trembling as the pattern of our lives is shaken and our expectations fail.[1]

The prime Old Testament example of one who endured pain and suffering is Job. Although he was a person whom God Himself called blameless and upright (Job 1:8), he lost everything in a single day. However, even after Job was restored, there is no answer as to why he suffered. But in this revelation, we see, it was Job’s faithfulness and trust that resulted in blessings that were even greater than before his loss (Job 42:12-17).

In the New Testament, we discover God’s attitude to suffering expressed in Jesus. Not only did God sympathize, sharing in our hurt and suffering, but God in Jesus even entered humanity and took on to Himself the full weight of sin (Heb. 2:14-18). And with that weight came suffering. Christ presents to us a model we can use to “embrace” suffering. Jesus’ attitude reflected trust, obedience, patience, and hope.

So what are we to do?

Scripture offers no magic remedy when suffering surprises and overwhelms us. There is no verse to read that will instantly heal us or even dull our pain. Grasping what the Bible teaches us about suffering (and how to meet it) will not relieve it. Nor will it release us from circumstances beyond our control.

However, the biblical perspective on suffering, will enable us to better cope and even to overcome those difficult times. The sufferings of the prophets, the apostles, and others, just like us, “reveal” the goodness and the greatness of Almighty God.

It reaffirms our trust in God and encourages us to “go deeper” in our relationship with Him. While we may not understand the reason for our suffering, we as believers can be assured God is with us to both comfort and strengthen us. The God of the mountains—our good times—is the same God of the valley—our times of suffering (1 Kin. 20:28). It is in the valley that we rekindle our hope and trust in Him; that we will KNOW that He is our God!

Our theology of suffering

With every incident of pain and distress, we are continually “updating” our “theology of suffering”. What did we learn about ourselves or about God in this experience? Are we getting “bitter or better” in managing through suffering? How are we responding? With anger, fear, or trust?

The mystery as to “why” we experience suffering remains shrouded and hidden. However, our best strategy and response is to develop a theology that draws its strength, faith, and hope from Eternal God. Perhaps one day, in eternity, we will discover the purpose for our suffering. But once we see Jesus, will it really matter?

More on suffering, its purpose, and possibilities, next week.

[1] Encyclopedia of Bible Words, Zondervan Publishing House

Spiritual Endurance

Our Theology of Suffering: Where does it come from?

September 27, 2022 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

Suffering is part of life

I know you probably don’t want to hear this, but suffering is part of living in this fallen world. Suffering is the state of undergoing pain, distress, or hardship. As humans, we continually look for every possible way to either avoid suffering or move through suffering as quickly as possible.

As we discussed last week, Satan introduced sin in the Garden of Eden (Gen. 3:16-19). Suffering is a natural consequence of sin. However, we often direct our frustration, not at its source, sin, but instead we ask, “Why did God let this happen?”

However, if we look behind the pain, distress, or hardship, we will discover “the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life” (1 John 2:16). These things make up “the world system” that is at enmity with God. Take a moment and reflect on the latest sufferings. Even the extreme weather can now be attributed to man’s abuse of the ecology.

Our theology shapes our view of suffering

Our theology of suffering is shaped by our understanding of who God is. It is important to know who God is and conversely, who He is not. While God IS all powerful, all knowing, and everywhere present, God does not exist to act as our Superman, or Wonder Woman, or Batman—running from here and there stopping evil.

God is the rightful ruler and authority over His universe (Col. 1:16). His divine plan of salvation and redemption of mankind is constantly at work. God is the sure foundation on which we can stand in times of uncertainty and times of suffering (Hab. 3:17-19).

Our trust in God shapes our view of suffering

Trust in God is another key factor that shapes our theology of suffering. In review of the biblical record, there are many incidents of suffering—pain, distress, or hardship. Incidents which required the Lord God to show Himself strong on behalf of His people. Sometimes God would remove the object of suffering. More often, however, God allowed the suffering to continue to grow the believer’s trust and faith in Him (2 Cor. 12:7-10).

In his letters to the new churches, the Apostle Paul often spoke of the need to trust and believe God, regardless of their current suffering.

And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them. (Rom. 8:28, NLT)

All of this is for your benefit. And as God’s grace reaches more and more people, there will be great thanksgiving, and God will receive more and more glory. That is why we never give up. Though our bodies are dying, our spirits are being renewed every day. For our present troubles are small and won’t last very long. Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever! (2 Cor. 4:15-17, NLT)

Our worldview shapes our view of suffering

Our worldview—our beliefs, values, and behavior—also influences how we view suffering. Many of us believe that we are in control of the events and circumstances in our life. We go to great efforts to manage and manipulate those things, which we feel, are in our control. That, however, isn’t always true. Remember COVID 19?

The Preacher (King Solomon) makes this assessment of “control” in Ecclesiastes 9:11. Regardless of personal capacity or ability—speed, strength, wisdom, cleverness, or skill, “time and chance” happens to us all. Suffering nullifies both personal capacity and ability.

Believers operate from a different worldview. We operate from God’s “Kingdom” worldview. As followers of Jesus Christ, we are citizens of God’s Kingdom, though we “temporarily” reside on earth (Phil. 3:20). This view acknowledges the reality of sin and suffering but offers an “alternate” response to the suffering we face.

The kingdom view recognizes that:

- God always loves and cares for His children (Ps. 23).
- God sovereignly rules over the universe (Ps. 103:19).
- God is always with and for us (Gen. 28:15; Matt.28:20).

Holding this view, we are able to persevere and live confidently even amid suffering.

Conclusion

Suffering is a reality of living. We will be better equipped to deal with suffering when our theology is correct. It begins with: (1) the correct view of God, (2) placement of trust in the “right” Person (The Triune God), and (3) an “eternal” Kingdom worldview.

Next week we will look at suffering: its purpose and possibilities.

Spiritual Endurance

Our Theology of Suffering: An Introduction

September 20, 2022 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

No suffering please

How do you feel about suffering? What are your beliefs about its cause and effect? Its purpose and possibilities. I, for one, am not volunteering for any unnecessary pain. However, if it hasn’t become evident at this point in our life, suffering is part of our journey as human beings.

Suffering was not part of God’s original divine plan. However, Satan’s introduction of sin in the Garden of Eden resulted in its creation (Gen. 3:16-19). As humans, we continually look for every possible way to avoid suffering. And if we can’t avoid it, we try to move through suffering as quickly as possible.

That’s why it is important for our spiritual growth and development to understand the what and why of suffering. This includes learning to best strengthen our resolve and focus when suffering occurs. Because “I guarantee you” that we all will suffer in the future. But the question is, what is your response to suffering? How well do you manage your pain?

What is suffering?

Suffering is the state of undergoing pain, distress, or hardship. As we look around, we might conclude that we are living in a continual state of suffering.

Pain, whether it be physical, mental, or emotional is evident in our society by the number of individuals seeking relief through food, drugs, and alcohol. Distress is extreme anxiety and sorrow.

Anxiety disorder is the class of mental disorder in which anxiety is the predominant feature. This disorder, an illness characterized by constant and boundless worry that interferes with the daily life, is the most common psychiatric illness in the United States, affecting 40 million American adults.[1]

Hardship (deprivation) is caused by any number of reasons: acts of nature resulting in loss of life and property or man-made (political/social/economic agendas and policies). Hardship presents itself in the growth of the lower economic class, which is one-third of where Americans are today.

The lower economic class, also known as the working class, is the socio-economic group with the least income. They are often categorized as families whose income falls below poverty line. These are the people who live hand to mouth, or paycheck to paycheck. They barely earn enough to cover their expenses and a huge expense often sends them into debt.[2]

What do we learn from the definition of suffering? Suffering affects more than our physical well-being. Suffering is not just episodic. It occurs more frequently and “routinely” than we want to admit. We have, unfortunately, accepted it as “part of life”. And to some degree it is part of life BUT how we respond and manage it, makes the difference between successful living and thriving OR stressful living and surviving.

Pain management

When we experience pain that cannot be alleviated with medication, surgery, or rehabilitation, our physician will often prescribe pain management treatment. The intent is to teach us strategies which will help us maintain control or influence over our pain. This might include for example, breathing techniques or mindfulness-based therapies.

Key to successful pain management treatment is the realization that the pain will not be eliminated, however, we can exercise control over the degree the pain will hinder or disrupt our life.

For believers, our pain management for suffering lies with our knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord (2 Pet. 1: 3-4). Since we live in a fallen world, suffering will continue. However, armed with knowledge of God, we can live confidently, trusting in His goodness and His greatness (Ps. 27:1-3).

This is especially true during difficult times—times of suffering—when fear and doubt challenge our faith. When this happens, we can stand firmly on what we know about God and those things which He has revealed to us as His children (Rom. 8:17).

Knowing these things can not only help us better respond to the suffering happening in our life but also react appropriately to the disruptions in the world around us. How we respond to things revealed become the entry point for God to provide His power, His provision, and His presence.

Next week, we will continue to discuss and develop our theology on suffering.

[1] Pew Research Center

[2] Ibid

Spiritual Endurance

Assurance for Difficult Days

September 28, 2021 ITWMinistries

Good Life = Good Circumstances?

In his book, The Secret Things of God, Dr. Henry Cloud shares this thought on happiness: “A good life doesn’t depend on good circumstances.”

Dr. Cloud’s statement finds agreement with the Apostle Paul who wrote to the church at Philippi, “I have learned to be satisfied regardless of my circumstances” (Phil. 4:11-13).

Paul’s contentment was based on his knowledge and relationship with The Source of all circumstances. Those times when circumstances are “not good”, we have an opportunity to hold firm to assurance in God.

A Psalmist’s View

The Psalmist captured this reality in the 16th Psalm as he writes of the faithfulness and assurance that can only be found in God. He writes in verse 8:

I have set the LORD always before me; Because He is at my right hand I shall not be moved.

I have set the LORD always before me…

The focus of the Psalmist is Jehovah God, the Existing One, who is the source of his confidence. Jehovah has always been and will always be. As Alpha and Omega, God operates as Divine Integrity—true and faithful.

“To set” means “to put”. Oh that we would only stop in the midst of our challenges and put our focus on God. We need not fear the paths that are set before us. That’s because those paths or experiences have been sovereignly “allowed” in our lives. Success or sickness, excess or lack, solitude or inclusion—they all flow from God’s hand of grace.

Because He (God) is at my right hand…

The Psalmist expresses His special relationship with Jehovah as he describes God positioned at his “right hand”. The “right hand” is the preferred one in patriarchal blessings (Gen. 48:17-20). Solemn oaths are made via the uplifted right hand (Is. 62:8).

The right hand is also used figuratively to emphasize God’s person and actions. God’s right hand is said to be filled with righteousness (Ps. 48:10) and might (Ps. 80:15-16). Like the Psalmist, we can find God positioned “at their right hand”, ready to provide help, strength, and security.

I shall not be moved

To be “moved” in this text means to totter or shake. It is typically used of the foundations of the earth (Ps. 82:5) and almost always negatively. However, “I shall not totter”, in contrast, is used of an intrepid unwavering person (Ps. 10:6).

In review the current events in our world, it is easy “to totter”. The progression of the pandemic variances, economic uncertainties, and growing division in our nation, “shake us”. And rightly so. In our attempts to manage our family needs and crisis, we are continually “moved”.

In spite of the challenges, we can become “non-totters” by placing our assurance in God. That’s because we serve a God Who “neither slumbers nor sleeps” (Ps. 121:4). Let us, also remember His love for us as evidenced by His protection and provision (Ps. 16:5-6).

A response of assurance

Where are we placing our faith and trust in? The challenges we face provide an excellent opportunity to evaluate our spiritual endurance and maturity. Our response to these difficult times can provide a strong witness to those in need of God’s salvation and God’s hope (Rom. 15:13).

Our Eternal God is greater than any circumstance we may face. He is the Creator and Sustainer of our life, ever present, and always acting on our behalf. Let us continually set God before us knowing that in His presence, we can live confidently and with joy (Ps. 16:11).

Spiritual Endurance

Reclaiming Our Life through God’s Presence

September 21, 2021 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

Who’s in control?

On a scale of one to five, how do you feel? With one, being “totally overwhelmed” and five, being “confidently optimistic”? Do you feel like your life is slowly slipping away?

Well join the club! Many of us feel that the life we had planned is being delayed or demolished as a result of the pandemic, the economy, and the social/political gridlock we find ourselves in. Disruptions, interruptions, and conflicts seem to be intensifying rather than diminishing.

The Mental Health Association researched the impact of living in our “new normal”. Here is a brief sampling of some of their findings:

- The number of people looking for help with anxiety and depression has skyrocketed. From January to September 2020, 315,220 people took the anxiety screen, a 93 percent increase over the 2019 total number of anxiety screens. 534,784 people took the depression screen, a 62 percent increase over the 2019 total number of depression screens.

- Young people are struggling most with their mental health. The proportion of youth ages 11-17 who accessed screening was 9 percent higher than the average in 2019. Not only are the number of youth searching for help with their mental health increasing, but throughout the COVID-19 pandemic youth ages 11-17 have been more likely than any other age group to score for moderate to severe symptoms of anxiety and depression.

These statistics are alarming to say the least. However, they help us quantify the emotional toll and brokenness our nation must now address.

Striving to Cope

While we are striving to cope with what’s happening around us physically, we must recognize the impact to our mental health and well-being. As our world shifts, there is a way to not only cope and survive but also reclaim our life (Joel 2:25). We can begin to combat the mental trauma and stress we face by strengthening our spiritual resiliency.

Resiliency is the ability of an object to “rebound or spring back” to its original shape after being stretched or compressed. Spiritual resiliency, however, is more. It is about not only bouncing back but also gaining greater strength and capacity than originally possessed.

As believers, we understand that it is God in us (1 John 4:4) that provides us the ability to not only bounce back, but to come back even stronger than before (2 Cor. 4:16-18). God is greater than anything we may face today or tomorrow.

Life lived in God’s Presence

To build spiritual resiliency, we must put ourselves in the presence of God. The psalmist understood this when he confidently penned Psalm 139:7-10 (NLT).

I can never escape from your spirit! I can never get away from your presence! If I go up to heaven, you are there; if I go down to the place of the dead, you are there. If I ride the wings of the morning, if I dwell by the farthest oceans, even there your hand will guide me, and your strength will support me.

God’s presence offers extraordinary benefit and impact for believers for today and beyond.

First, knowing God is everywhere offers us great comfort. If we have learned one thing from this pandemic it is that we must watch for potential risks and dangers that may threaten us physically, financially, and socially. To know that we are never out of the presence of God should settle the faint-hearted. “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear.” (Ps. 46:1-2).

Secondarily, believers living in the presence of God possess great confidence knowing that He is ever-present. In these critical times, recognizing that the “only wise God” (Rom. 16:27) is there to guide and direct our steps, comforts our hearts, and eases our stress (Phil. 4:6-7). Our faith is strengthened because of who God is. In, out, or through the storm, we know we are not alone.

Finally, living in God’s presence provides us great clarity as to how we are to live during these tumultuous times (Titus 2:11-13). This acknowledgment requires that we live obediently according to His Word and under the direction of the Holy Spirit. Yes, even amid this pandemic! (Rom. 12:2; 1 Pet. 1:13-16; 1 John 2:16-17)

The Believer’s reality

Our worldview is based on the reality that we live in the presence of, under the authority of, and to the honor and glory of God. We know that God is the Creator and Sustainer of life. He has kept us in the past, is keeping us now, and will keep us in the future. (Ps. 3:5; Heb. 1:3)

In the presence of God we will find not only what we need to survive today but also prepare us for tomorrow. By acknowledging the presence of God, we can regain our life. We can move through the challenges we face mentally resilient, emotionally strong, and spiritually fit.

Will our lives ever be the same? Probably not. But our lives can be lived confidently and with hope (Ps. 42:5) because we know we are continually in God’s presence. Wherever we are, God is there with us. Therefore, we can move forward and begin to reclaim our lives. (Jer. 29:11)

Spiritual Endurance

Time for a Reset

September 8, 2021 ITWMinistries 1 Comment

Reboot, restart, reset

When our computer refuses to follow the manual commands we’re inputting, what is the first thing the Geeks tell us to do? Reboot the system! After ten unsuccessful attempts to change screens on our phone, in frustration, we shut it down and restart it. Our new high-definition entertainment center sends us confusing error messages. Our online trouble-shooter tells us to reset our television by accessing the system menu.

Reboot, restart, reset. They all have the same meaning and intent. By returning to the beginning, we will be able to continue with our desired outcome: finish a project, make a phone call, or watch the Kansas City Chiefs.

This can also be true with our lives. When things go “haywire”, do we do something different? When what we’ve done in the past, no longer works, do we continue banging our heads against the same wall and complain of the pain? What are our options? Do we reset?

A national reset

As a nation, we are entering new territory as we learn to live and lead amid pandemics and their variants. Difficult issues that existed pre-COVID, are demanding our immediate attention. These include homelessness, mental health, and social inequities, just to name a few. Natural disasters highlight the reality of global warming.

Our nation’s economic, political, and social beliefs have us alienated from each other. Families and friends are divided over what should unite us—the safety of our nation and love for our families. Unfortunately, we are leaving a legacy of anger, polarization, and division for future generations.

Musical icon, James Taylor, shares the danger of this national trend through his recording of a song from the 1949 musical, South Pacific. It is entitled, “You’ve Got to Be Carefully Taught”.

You’ve got to be taught.

To hate and fear,

You’ve got to be taught.

From year to year,

It’s got to be drummed.

In your dear little ear.

You’ve got to be carefully taught.

What can we do to impact these forces we now face in our life as a nation? We need to reset!

Our faith reset

Whatever impacts our nation, impacts us personally. That is why our faith is so critical during this time in our history.

I truly believe that we, as believers, were created for “such a time” as we are experiencing (Esther 4:14). God created us from the foundations of the world to represent Him during these challenging times (2 Tim. 1:9).

It’s often been said that “we are not saved to sit but to serve.” I’d like to add to that saying that we are also “saved to battle” for the Kingdom of God and the souls of men (2 Cor. 10:3-5: Ep. 6:10-12). Our weaponry includes God’s Word and prayer (Ep. 6:17-18).

As believers, I also contend, that we have everything we need to “live victoriously”. At In the Word Ministries we define victorious living as emotional confidence and spiritual contentment found in living in the reality and purpose of God. Our confidence is built on the nature of God (who He is); our contentment is “fruit” from the indwelling of His Holy Spirit (Gal. 5: 22-23).

Most importantly, it is key that we remember who we are in Christ and that we are God’s children. (Rom. 8:16)

Faith RESET Instructions

If you’re receiving “error messages” through feelings of despair, dissatisfaction, and hopelessness, it’s time to reset. I offer the following faith RESET instructions for your immediate use. Feel free to add your own scriptures and share them with us. I placed it in an acrostic so that you can remember it with a special scripture to fortify your position 😉

Remember God’s “past” faithfulness to you.

This I recall to my mind, Therefore I have hope. Through the LORD’s mercies we are not consumed, Because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness. (Lamentations 3:21-23)

Engage by using your spiritual gifts.

As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. (1 Peter 4:10)

Spend “intentional” time in reading God’s Word and in “purposeful” prayer.

I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing. (John 15:5)

Expect God to act.

The LORD says, “I will rescue those who love me. I will protect those who trust in my name.” (Psalm 91:14, NLT)

Trust in the Lord.

Trust in the LORD with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths. (Proverbs 3:5-6)

Please share these RESET instructions with friends and family, especially when they feel “some kinda of way.”

Spiritual Endurance

God Speaks through Circumstances

July 20, 2021 ITWMinistries 1 Comment

Under our circumstances

In our culture, it is not unusual for people to greet one another with the inquiry, “How are you?” In response, a multitude of replies are available. However, my favorite is, “I’m doing fairly well under the circumstances.”

This is my opportunity to respond, “Why are you under your circumstances and what are you doing to get back on top?” Circumstances are conditions or facts that affect a situation. These can be either positive or negative. They define a state in which an individual, group, or even a nation may find itself.

As we daily face “tumultuous” circumstances—pandemics, social strive, economic uncertainty—it is important to remember that God sees. Even in our worst of circumstances, God is present (Ps. 139:7-10). God sees, God cares, and God speaks.

Circumstances for all times

There are many biblical examples that illustrate how God used circumstances to speak to His people. Circumstances dictated that Moses would be set adrift in the Nile. It was there that he would be found by the king’s daughter and adopted into the royal household by the ruling Pharaoh (Exod. 2:1-10).

God later spoke to Moses after his “40-year circumstance” of working for his father-in-law Jethro the priest of Midian (Exod. 3:1). God then re-directed him to deliver His people Israel, who were dealing with their circumstance of bondage.

In the book of Acts, God speaks to the early church by using the political and social circumstances around them. Jesus had clearly articulated the scope of the church’s ministry: “and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth” (Acts 1:8).

While it was within their “comfort zone” to stay in Jerusalem, God spoke through the circumstance of persecution to move the gospel to a larger audience. Throughout the Bible we find God speaking to people through special favor (1 Sam. 1:20), through personal loss (Ruth 1:3-5), or through miraculous deliverance (Acts 23:30-31). God spoke to them through their circumstances.

Circumstances today

God still speaks today through circumstances. He will use conditions and situations from our everyday life to place us in a position to hear His voice.

Does God create circumstances to make us do His will? No, God has created us as freewill agents and desires that we choose to live within His divine plan. But God will allow circumstances to flow into our life to accomplish His glory and our good (Rom. 8:24).

Conforming circumstances

God permits circumstances in our lives that will mature us and grow our faith (1 Pet. 1:5-7). What may appear at first to be a “stumbling block” may, in actuality, turn out to be “steppingstones”.

God also speaks through closed doors as well as opened doors, this includes delayed prayers. While the Apostle Paul wanted to share the gospel in Asia, he repeatedly found the way blocked by the Holy Spirit (Acts 16:6-10).

What our passage suggests to me is that God may close one door of ministry in order to open a better one. Paul was thinking locally—Asia and Bithynia. God was thinking more globally—cross the Aegean Sea into modern-day Europe. Divine redirection demands that we trust divine omniscience: we would have made the same choice if we knew what God knew. Through God’s providential redirection, Paul was able to plant churches in Philippi, Thessalonica, Berea, and Corinth. What a great open door![1]

As we proceed in this Christian walk, we must remember that the intent of our life is to glorify God and to accomplish His purpose on earth (2 Cor. 5:15). That is why it is important to be intentional in prayer and reading God’s Word especially during difficult and challenging times, regardless of the circumstance (Phil. 4:6-13).

As we develop our personal relationship with God, we will understand that He loves us and can be trusted with every aspect of our life. Sometimes our circumstances will take us out of our comfort zone, but we can be assured we are not in them alone (1 John 4:4).

Next time you feel “under your circumstances”, ask God what He is saying to you.

[1] “Live with a Mission”, Timothy Berrey with the Gospel Fellowship Association.

Spiritual Endurance

Certainty in an Uncertain World: Epilogue

March 2, 2021 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

We close this series by reviewing what we have learned and by identifying next steps that will bring us greater certainty in an uncertain world.

What have we learned?

#1 We do not like uncertainty. “It is like a type of pain, something to be avoided. Certainty on the other hand feels rewarding, and we tend to steer toward it, even when it might be better for us to remain uncertain.” Uncertainty makes us uneasy. We feel it is something we need to control (Prov. 3:5-6).

#2 Uncertainty is as sure as death and taxes. The sources of uncertainty will not go away. Such is the result of living in a fallen world. Uncertainty is a “sure thing” that we must learn to manage (Eccl. 9:11).

#3 God is the only reliable source of certainty. He provides us with divine certainty. He alone has both the desire and the capability to address whatever may come our way. And God never changes and is forever faithful (Lam. 3:22-23). Because of God’s character, we can place our confidence and trust in Him.

Equipped with this information, how do we incorporate these realities into our lives? How do we build spiritual muscle to contend with the uncertainties of life?

“Holdfast to your faith.”

Hebrews 11:1 gives us a point of reference to begin addressing uncertainty in our lives. Our writer states in the opening verse: “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” This statement comes after an appeal to the readers of this letter to “hold fast.” (Heb. 10:19-39)

It is here that the author begins to cite individuals in biblical history who earned a place in the Faith Hall of Fame. While the object of what they hoped for was temporal, it was their faith that helped them to holdfast. For our discussion, I will focus on one member of this notable group, Abraham. Let’s examine how Abraham’s faith helped him deal with uncertainty.

“He hoped against hope.”

Paul used Abraham as an example for the church at Romans. In chapter 4, the apostle continues to teach the point that it is faith—belief in Jesus Christ—that individuals receive salvation. It is in the closing verses (Rom. 4:16-25), that the Apostle Paul, like the writer of Hebrews, testifies to the faith of Abraham.

Paul magnifies the strength of Abraham’s faith in several expressions used in this text.

“Who against hope believed in hope.” Upon hearing God’s promises, Abraham had to “bring into captivity every thought” (2 Cor. 10:5) he had concerning ‘what was possible’ with God. Every rational explanation of how parenthood and leadership of a nation was possible (human hope) had to become “subservient” to the supernatural reality of God (divine hope). Such hope is reliant on understanding the power and sovereignty of God (Rom. 4:17).

“He considered not his own body.” When Abraham did consider his own body, he birthed Ishmael with Sarah’s Egyptian handmaid, Hagar (Gen. 16). That was not God’s plan. It was God’s plan for Abraham and Sarah to birth a child when both their bodies were considered “dead”. Once Abraham accepted God’s plan, he “didn’t focus on his own impotence and say, ‘It’s hopeless. This hundred-year-old body could never father a child. Nor did he survey Sarah’s decades of infertility and give up’ “(Rom. 4:19, The Message). Sometimes God does things “His way” so we understand HE IS GOD and we are not. Translation: God is sovereign.

“He staggered not…”

“He staggered not at the promise of God.” Some translations use the word, waver instead of staggered to describe the resolve of Abraham’s faith. To stagger means to be at variance with oneself, to hesitate, or doubt (James 1:6). Such was not the case with Abraham. To the contrary, his acceptance of God’s promise resulted in the strengthening of his faith. Some translations also share that this strengthening of Abraham’s faith resulted “in bringing God glory” (CSB) or that Abraham’s faith grew stronger “as he gave glory to God” (NRS). When we trust God, not doubting, we are strengthened, and He is glorified.

“Being fully persuaded.” The literal reading of this phrase is “being fully assured.” Abraham was convinced that God was able and willing to make good on all His promises. Such faith can be described as “God-centric”, in that, the accomplishment of the promises to Abraham were totally dependent on God. In this case, the promises of God would depend on God’s ability to perform them—not man’s capability. Abraham’s role, like ours today is to exercise our faith and believe God.

The impact of unbelief

Unbelief can cripple our faith. It can cause us to make bad choices and interrupt God’s purpose for our lives. Remember Abraham and Hagar? One commentator wrote this about unbelief: “Unbelief dishonors God by making Him a liar (1 John 5:10). Faith honors God by setting to its seal that He is true.”[1]

Our unbelief is often caused by viewing a problem or situation from our ability to resolve it. Unbelief is “shortsighted” seeing only our own capacity or ability to resolve. We seldom factor in God until our plans go awry. Many biblical failures occurred because of unbelief. Remember the Garden of Eden?

The old elders of the church were often questioned about their faith in God. They never attended theological institutions nor studied with great scholars of the Bible. They would humbly respond, “I just know what I know!” Translation: They believed without a doubt who God was and they believed that God would do ALL that He promised. For these elders to “know” was synonymous with their “belief”.

Conclusion

As we look around and see our world in a state of uncertainty, it is easy to become anxious and fearful. It is difficult to understand what is happening around us. Pandemics, civil unrest, financial insecurity. Uncertainty has become commonplace with little hope of eliminating it. Who are we to believe? Who do we trust for the right answers?

There is a solution for times of uncertainty in our life. We can begin by embracing the divine certainty of God, His promises, and our position in Christ Jesus. However, these certainties can only be realized through our intentional response of faith.

It is important that we as believers move past simply “intellectualizing” our faith. We must “internalized” it. Our faith in God must become “second nature” to us as we deal with our fears and our challenges. Not pie in the sky but total reliance on the goodness and greatness of God. This requires that we walk closely with Lord and practice His presence.

Let us rely on the power and sovereignty of God. Don’t focus on your own impotency. When we trust God, our faith is strengthened, and He is glorified. Let us not stagger. Let us be “fully persuaded” knowing God is in charge and the Source for all our needs. God is our certainty for uncertain times. God is our hope and our peace—our exceeding great reward (Gen. 15:1).

Closing Prayer

Father God, help us to trust You in all we face in these days of uncertainty. Make our faith real and active. Let us not walk by sight but by faith. We praise You and glorify Your holy name. We stagger not at Your promises knowing You are more than able. And not only are You able, but You are willing. We ask these things in Your darling Son’s name, our Lord and Savior Jesus the Christ. AMEN

[1] Matthew Henry Commentary, Romans 4

Spiritual Endurance

Certainty in an Uncertain World, Part 2

February 23, 2021 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

The Believer’s certainty

As we stated last week, certainty is defined as a fact that is definitely true. It is the state of being reliably true. As believers our certainty is connected to God. Our confidence is based not only on Who God is but also on His truth.

We recognize the uncertainties of living in a fallen world. To live in a fallen world means we struggle with sin daily. We experience heartache and pain. We witness natural disasters and staggering loss. Injustice, inhumanity, and falsehood seem to dominate. Discord and trouble are commonplace. None of this was God’s original plan for humanity.

It is important, however, that as believers we focus on the certainties of our faith—divine certainties—that enable us to navigate successfully in these difficult times. What are these divine certainties? How do they help us in times of uncertainty?

Divine Certainty-God’s Nature

The certainty of our faith begins with our understanding the nature of God. While there are many attributes of God’s nature, I will focus on two (2): God’s immutability (He does not change) and God’s veracity (He is truthful).

This is especially important as we discuss the matter of certainty. This means that whatever God states, in His Word and through His Holy Spirt, can be accepted with certainty—as reliably true. What God has stated in the historical past is still true in our contemporary present.

The immutability of God expresses the fact that God does not change. What we are dealing with here is the dependability of God. He will be the same tomorrow as He is today. He will act as He has promised. The believer can rely on Him (Lam. 3:22-23; 1 John 1:9). God’s immutability is “a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul.” (Hebrews 6:18-19)

God’s veracity speaks to God’s truthfulness. God represents things as they really are. God never lies (Titus 1:2). It is contrary to His nature. God is “trustworthy”. Such truth can either be assuring or fearful, depending on your relationship with the Lord (Numbers 23:19).

Divine Certainty-Our Identity in Christ

Our identity in Christ is another major reason for certainty and assurance of our faith in God. We have peace during uncertain times because of our relationship with Jesus.

For me, Ephesians 1:3-17, does an extraordinary job outlining the many spiritual blessings and promises found in our New Covenant relationship with Father God. It details the completed work of Christ as only can be designed by God before the foundation of the earth.

In Christ God makes His superabundant blessing available to His children by faith in Christ so that what Christ has is theirs—including His righteousness, privilege, resources, position, and power. Believers are now able to draw upon the wealth of Christ to accomplish God’s purpose and His will. This includes our spiritual security as we move from “death to eternal life” (John 5:24).

Divine Certainty-Our Anchor

Our certainty is also connected to our memory. Let us not forget the faithfulness God has shown us in the past. The church mothers would often assure us in times of distress: “The Lord didn’t bring us this far to leave us.” King David shares their belief as he reminds us in Psalm 103:2 to “forget not all God’s benefits.”

Our personal history to God’s faithfulness is a testimony of our certainty in God. We are witnesses to God’s presence, His protection, and His provision. During times of uncertainty, we can walk confidently in the divine certainty based on our connection with God.

My intent in this writing is to remind believers that during these times of uncertainty and disruption, we have an anchor in the Lord. Our confidence is based on Him alone. Our Lord is the only true source of certainty in an uncertain world (Ps. 37:3).