Here on this earth you WILL have MANY trials and sorrows. BUT take heart, because I HAVE overcome the world- Jesus (Jn. 16:33). Boy does that say it all! In this present moment of crisis it is such a comfort to know that Jesus told us to expect such and left us with the solution for all that would come our way.
Yesterday was one of the most difficult days of my life. Between Amy’s first chemotherapy treatment and a rough day at the dialysis unit for me (simultaneously) it all seemed to surreal. Even now, speaking about the situation with my darling wife seems like another person’s story or a book of someone else’s life. The emotional side of all this is too much to even try and handle and that is why we must not be led or controlled by emotions but allow our spirit man to take the lead. In my emotions there is anxiety, fear, and shock, but in my spirit there is peace, faith, and a calm assurance that Jesus Christ is at the right hand of the Father interceding for me day and night. What a grand thought!
All this leads me to the point I started with in my title that in the midst of tremendous crisis and battle you must take the stance of one day at a time. If you get to thinking about all that is happening, has happened, or may happen then you will go crazy. The only thing you can do is trust the Word of God and hold on to the Lord with all your mind, soul, and strength. I have found tremendous comfort in the Word of God as I have been preparing my spirit to preach and impart this next week. Digging into the Word and seeking the Lord has been a haven for me in this moment of distress. I can’t wait to see the victory that will come forth as thousands of young people and hundreds of youth pastors flood into Bethany North and receive things that will carry them for a lifetime in God. The devil will be depressed and demoralized as he has sent his best and we are not only standing but on the offense against him. Truly God’s grace is suffecient!
The Scripture the Lord has put in my spirit comes from Heb. 6:18b-19,20– Therefore, we who have fled to Him for refuge can take new courage, for we can hold on to His promise with confidence. This confidence is like a strong and trustworthy anchor for our souls. It leads us through the curtain of heaven into God’s inner sanctuary. Jesus has already gone in there for us. He has become our eternal High Priest in the line of Melchizedek.
No matter what the storm may be all you have to do is throw out the anchor of His promise and hold on to the rope of His supernatural peace. Soon all will be over and the voyage of life can go on.