Wow! That’s easier said than done, right?
I read something the other day that said, “God is never late. He doesn’t wear a watch but He’s always right on time”.
We have our set schedule, our time frame and expectations on how things should be done and how long it should take but rarely, is that the same time frame that God uses. He wants us living in the moment, in His presence, regardless of the circumstances.
We used to sing a hymn, nearly every Sunday evening. Our church let people request the songs we sang those evenings and inevitably someone would request “What A Friend We Have in Jesus”. And then they would share a testimony of God’s faithfulness and provision. I particularly like verses two and three.
“Have we trials and temptations?
Is there trouble anywhere?
We should never be discouraged—
Take it to the Lord in prayer.
Can we find a friend so faithful,
Who will all our sorrows share?
Jesus knows our every weakness;
Take it to the Lord in prayer.
Are we weak and heavy-laden,
Cumbered with a load of care?
Precious Savior, still our refuge—
Take it to the Lord in prayer.
Do thy friends despise, forsake thee?
Take it to the Lord in prayer!
In His arms He’ll take and shield thee,
Thou wilt find a solace there.” verses 2 & 3 of What a Friend We Have in Jesus by Joseph Scriven
Never be discouraged – take it to the Lord in prayer. Listen to these words that the Lord spoke in the Old Testament to Joshua and Isaiah.
“Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.” Isaiah 41:10 NLT
“Don’t ever be afraid or discouraged,” Joshua told his men. “Be strong and courageous, for the Lord is going to do this to all of your enemies.” Joshua 10:25NLT
“Be strong and courageous! Don’t be afraid or discouraged because of the king of Assyria or his mighty army, for there is a power far greater on our side!” II Chronicles 32:7 NLT
No matter the circumstances, no matter the obstacles, no matter the enemy we have God’s promise to never leave us or abandon us. Keeping our hearts set on this promise will keep us from being afraid or discouraged.