April 30, 2020
FAITH THAT SEES
In recent seasons of my life, I have found myself focusing on the negatives and complaining instead of all of the blessings the Lord has given me. Through these seasons, the Lord did a work in my heart to learn to trust him for all of my needs. A verse that spoke to me during this time was Proverbs 3:5-6 says, “5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; 6 in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” What I take away from this verse is that we first must learn to “distrust” ourselves. Our hearts and minds cannot be trusted to guide us through our daily lives because they are often deceiving. As a child, I memorized this verse as in all your ways acknowledge him; however, I prefer the above version because it takes more than just acknowledgment. We must wholly submit to Him and trust that He will guide us, so we can actively pursue God’s will for our lives. During those seasons, I learned to have confidence that God always does what is best, even when we can’t see it.
This verse reminds me of the story of Daniel. Daniel refused to bow down to the ungodly laws of man. Daniel not only acknowledged God but fully trusted and submitted to him when he was thrown into the pit of lions. This story teaches us about the promises and faithfulness of God. What we can learn from Daniel is to trust God to take care of all our needs despite our circumstances. As it says in Jeremiah 29:11, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
During this time of uncertainty for many, my focus has been on faith not fear. Two questions I often ask myself:
- What are the good things in your life right now for which you are truly thankful?
- Are you seeking to see those good things daily?
I challenge each of you ladies to ask yourselves these questions and pray this prayer with me: Father, I thank you for these blessings. I am so grateful for all you’ve done for me. Help me to see your blessings even in times of trial.
James 1:12 “Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.”
Standing Together,
Jess Stairs