Despite the arduous mental battle of our family and friends having to process such an intense and potentially lethal health problem, God has been faithful to the promises in his word to never leave or desert us and provide the peace that transcends all understanding. Our family and close friends would all agree that God has been undeniably present through this terrible situation to rally His church towards prayer and good works. It is incredible to see how God uses His people to be the instruments of his comfort, compassion and love. Christian believers from all over the world have been interceding and standing in the gap for Derek in these last few weeks. What a profound truth to know that the God of the universe hears and responds to the cry's of His people. I have been able to see once again the furious love of the Father who cares for us more than we could possibly imagine. So how do we find stability in a time of crisis when we're faced with uncertainty?
Paul who wrote the book of Philippians in the context of being held as a prisoner being beaten and starved gives us helpful teaching on how we can develop spiritual stability.
Harmony in the Church And I exhort you too, my genuine yokefellow, help these two women to keep on cooperating..." Phil 4:2-3
Loving, peaceful harmony is a stabilizer. When you are in such an environment you are surrounded and supported by other believers. Enjoy the unity, peace and love of the church!
"I Rejoice in the Lord always, again I say rejoice" Phil4:4
God does not expect that we jump for joy at the various crisis' that come our way but urges us to find joy in our relationship with Him despite any circumstances. Have joy in knowing that you have a firm, secured and privileged relationship with God knowing that he is aware of you and you are aware of Him. This priceless relationship transcends any trial, difficulty or circumstance. Keep your eyes on Jesus.
Learning to accept less than you deserve. "
Let all men know and recognize your unselfishness"(Phil4:5)
Paul speaks of the spiritual qualities of humility and contentment. When we can get a proper understanding that we actually deserve nothing due to our sinfulness we can begin to cultivate an attitude of expecting nothing and demanding nothing. If we wrongly assess our sinfulness we can come to the conclusion that we deserve every positive outcome. This attitude breeds an unstable life since it misunderstands the brokenness of our human condition. Friends, we deserve nothing but punishment, guilt and death; therefore everything that does come our way is a pure gift of grace.
Resting on a confident faith in the Lord "The Lord is near" Phil4:6
Because the Lord is near we don't need to be anxious about anything. The way you handle problems is a reflection of your view of God. If you understand God's power, promise, resources, purposes and plans towards you then where is the cause for anxiety? God is sovereign, loving and uses everything in our lives for his glory and our good.
Thank you for your prayers and love for the Lord. Your commitment and diligence inspires me. Please continue interceding for Derek as he prepares for surgery in a week. May we trust in the goodness of the God we serve and rest in his love."Do not fret or have anxiety about anything, but in every circumstance and in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, continue to make your wants known to God. And God's peace, that tranquil state of a soul assured of its salvation through Christ, and so fearing nothing from God and being content with its earthly lot of whatever sort that is, that peace which transcends all understanding shall garrison and mount guard over your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus" Phil 4:6-7
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