Thursday, February 28, 2013

Joy in Trials

Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance.  James 1:2-3

Typically my first thought when I'm in the midst of a trial is not to have joy in it, but that's exactly what God wants.  If I truly want to grow spiritually then I will embrace the trial knowing that it produces endurance.  I remind myself that God will not give me more than I can handle and that He allows this trial for my good and His glory.  When I think on these things that are true and honorable then I have joy knowing that I serve a merciful God who's grace is new everyday.  Sometimes trials are small things like being stressed over a chaotic schedule and other times it's battling serious health problems.  My response to both of these trials should be the same, consider it all joy.  Remember that God gives you strength to handle the little things and the big things.  Our Lord Jesus Christ has given us a direct line to God through prayer.  When your mind is gripped with fear and worry stop and pray.  God will guard your heart and mind.  He is faithful when we have little faith!

Angie

The Grace Filled Life

I was excited when my wife Angie:-) mentioned writing a blog a few months ago.  I was certain then (and now) that her words will be used by our Lord to encourage women in their own walk with The Lord. I know that is her hope.

As we discussed possible themes for her new blog, I timidly asked her if we could come up with a theme that would allow me to join her and she graciously said yes!  The blog theme is pretty simple, we want to write about our walk with The Lord and how His grace is sufficient.  We desire for our Lord to use our simple words to His glory.

I would like to be able to stand with Paul in saying, "Be imitators of me, just as I also am of Christ." (1 Corinthians 11:1 NASB), but I am certain that you should look to Paul and our Lord to imitate but I hope to simply be an encouragement to those who read my entries.

But encourage one another day after day, as long as it is  still  called "Today," so that none of you will be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin. (Hebrews 3:13 NASB)

Brandon

God's Grace Abounds

Grace - unmerited divine assistance given humans for their regeneration or sanctification.  
I'm a sinner saved by grace through faith in Christ.  Ephesians 2:8  I am blessed with a loving husband and 4 beautiful kids.  As I seek to glorify the Lord in all I do there are always challenges and battles to fight.  Whether I'm learning to do all things without grumbling or disputing or showing love by being patient, kind and bearing all things; I have seen God's grace abound in my life.  No matter your life situation always know that God's grace is sufficient for you (2 Cor. 12:9).  Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.  Philippians 4:6  Pray deeply and trust that God will supply all your needs.  Thank you Lord for grace sufficient for even me!

Angie