When we are confronted with difficult situations, it is not easy to rejoice. Fear and anxiety can cloud our minds because we can't figure out a solution or a way out of our predicament. We may begin to question God or doubt His loving care towards us. However, regardless of how we feel, the truth of the matter is that God cares and loves us, and that will never change. We rejoice in our God because our relationship with Him is not based on how we feel, but our relationship with him is based on His faithfulness towards us. God understands our weaknesses and struggles. He always looks after us, but that doesn't mean that we will escape hardships in this world. Difficulties and hardships in this world are inevitable. We cannot escape from them because of the sins of this world. Christians and non-Christians are both suffering in this world because of sin. The only difference that we have between us and the non-Christians is that we have God who holds us together. As long as our God is sitting on His throne, we will always overcome no matter the challenges or difficulties we encounter. Our security in our God is guaranteed; therefore, we can rejoice in our difficulties and hardships.
Psalm 97 describes the greatness of our God and gives us a reason to rejoice in the midst of our difficulties and hardships, "The Lord reigns, let the earth be glad; let the distant shores rejoice. Clouds and thick darkness surround him; righteousness and justice are the foundation of his throne. Fire goes before him and consumes his foes on every side. His lightning lights up the world; the earth sees and trembles. The mountains melt like wax before the Lord, before the Lord of all the earth. The heavens proclaim his righteousness, and all peoples see his glory (Psalm 97:1-6)." We can rejoice in every circumstance that we are in because our God reigns. We may be having difficulty with our finances, health, relationships, jobs, school, or family, but we can still have inner joy in our hearts because we believe that God takes care of us.
When we completely trust God's love, we will always have hope in our hearts and minds. God will sustain us through life regardless of what happens in this world. Different kinds of suffering will not go away in this world, but we have God's love in us that will sustain us forever.
Questions for application: (Think through these questions carefully, meditate on them while answering them, and let the Spirit of God speak to you.) Why can I rejoice in the midst of my difficulties and hardships? What can I learn about God's love towards me? What is one thing that God has shown me from today's devotion?
Take a moment to write down all your worries today. Then, lift them up to God in prayer, surrendering them to His will and trusting in His guidance.
Prayer:
Dear Father in Heaven, I can rejoice in the midst of my difficulties and hardships because of your love and faithfulness. Thank you for always taking care of my needs. Please help me remember that you are always there for me, and there is nothing that can separate me from your great love. I believe with all of my heart that you will take care of everything that concerns today and tomorrow. In your name, Jesus, I pray. Amen.
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