by Carol Roberts | Mar 3, 2017 | Encouragement
Growing up most of us have heard these four words put into a phrase. Each word asks an important question that when answered will give us information we need to make decisions. As we further study these answers it opens up more precise actions to take in order to get the best results.
In our prayer life, however things can be very different. We are quick to ask God why things happen. Most of the time we will not receive an answer to the question, “Why?”
There are many examples of why we would not get an answer to our “Whys.” The most common reason is the word, why, many times puts the focus on us. Why did this happen to me? Why did my loved one die? Why do I always get picked over? Why doesn’t this person like me? Why does another person get all the breaks and I do not?
The question, “Why” will answer itself when we follow the basic rule of the Bible that states we are to place God above all else. As we follow the order of what, who, when and where the whys become obvious.
Lord, what would You have me do in this situation? Who do You need me to speak to and what would You have me to say? Show me where, Lord, You would have me go in order to best serve You and be specific when You would have me go or speak.
What, who, when and where take self out of the main attention and place focus back on God as we await His instructions. As we see the results of what transpires the answer to why takes care of itself.
Matthew 6:33 New Living Translation
Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and He will give you everything you need.
by Carol Roberts | Mar 2, 2017 | Love
Where there is sorrow, let there be peace. Where there is disappointment, let there be comfort. Where there is an obstacle, let there be an open path. Where there are tears, let there be laughter.
Numbers 6:24-26 New Living Translation
‘May the Lord bless you and protect you. May the Lord smile on you and be gracious to you. May the Lord show you His favor and give you His peace.’
by Carol Roberts | Mar 1, 2017 | Encouragement
Joseph became second only to Pharaoh because he trusted God. Earlier his older brothers were jealous over a dream he explained and had him sold as a slave. After that Potiphar’s wife framed him for something he did not do and he was jailed. Growing up he had the habit of bring boastful and proud. Even with all of these things working against him he found favor with God by humbling himself.
Another example is King David. He was considered the outcast by the rest of his family but he continued serving as a shepherd. He was totally overlooked when his brothers were introduced to the messenger who was to anoint the next king. After the messenger insisted that none of the brothers were the one to be anointed they sent for David who was in the field and to their amazement, he was the one. David also had his share of issues, mainly lust. His life was continually being challenged by Saul yet God gifted him as a musician and used him to help keep Saul calm.
We sometimes walk through difficulties. At times we don’t feel accepted or noticed for our values. We all fall short of God’s glory with things like pride, anger, jealousy and other sins yet God shows His favor toward us just for asking Him. The Bible refers to humility and faith as being key to knowing God and having Him reveal Himself to us. As we continue to strive to attain the most for each moment with an attitude of service to our Lord He will see to it blessings unfold. It’s not what people think of us but what God knows about us.
Proverbs 22:4 New Living Translation
True humility and fear of the Lord lead to riches, honor, and long life.