Have you lost your job? Are you losing your house? Is your business about to go bankrupt? Do you have a child that has rushed off into rebellion? Is the strain even threatening your marriage? Do you feel like you are failing… falling?
Then please read on.
I personally know several people – brothers and sisters in Christ – that would quickly answer “Yes” to at least one of these questions. There was a not too distant time when this was not the case. We were all comfortable and “blessed”. Life was “good”.
But something is going on in the Body of Christ. Many are suffering. Many feel like failures. Many feel they are falling – spiraling down. Of course, we know that God did not promise us a rose garden – but we didn’t expect this. It’s really hard not to ask the questions, “Why Lord? Why now?”
My personal opinion is He is trying to get our attention, and what many are experiencing is just the beginning of a corporate shaking – so that what remains cannot be shaken. We have become much too dependent on the world’s provision. So much so, that we do not know what true provision looks like.
But that is not why I am writing this blog. My answers for your situation would be too general – and unsatisfactory. The understanding is beyond me. And, I suggest, any other writer. It is as complex as our God, and as varied as His children. The answer is – by intention – only found in each child’s relationship with the Father. What is He saying to you?
You see, He loves us and He desires our full attention. He has something each of us needs to hear. Get this: He has a personal message for you. But that’s between you and Him. I don’t have the answers.
However, I do have something I can offer – and with full assurance. I pray you will receive it. It is an encouragement that will sustain you… as it has me. It comes from Psalm 37. By the way, I suggest you read the entire Psalm. It has been a great faith builder in my times of trial and tribulation. But, for now, let’s concentrate on verses 23 and 24.
23 The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD,
And He delights in his way.
24 Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down;
For the LORD upholds him with His hand. (NKJV)
Be encouraged that your steps – no matter what valley they lead you into – are ordered by the Lord. He is sovereign. He is in control. As you walk with Him, He is delighting in you… because He knows the outcome of the journey: A more intimate relationship with Him. This is what delights our Father.
The key to verse 24 is simple, but oh so powerful. Notice that it does not say, “fall down”. I am sure that every one of you have fallen and been caught by someone. Yes, you can fall and not hit the ground (i.e., be utterly cast down). You are not destined to “hit bottom”. It is not God’s intention for any of His children.
So, stop right here and ask yourself if you believe He will uphold you. And don’t be shy about saying, “Yes, the Lord has promised to uphold me with His hand.” Say it again! Say it out loud!! Speak the truth into your heart. Let faith arise. Go tell your friends. It will encourage them, and build your faith in the truth of God’s love and provision.
I will conclude with this admonition: Don’t confuse the LORD’s upholding with you upholding yourself. If He has you in this falling place, you will not find what He has for you if you are intent on catching yourself. He desires your trust and surrender. It is a decision you will have to make. Let Him order your steps.
He is faithful. His hand is all powerful. His love is unconditional.
Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly more than we can ask or think, according to the power that works in us, to Him be the glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen!!
Your servant and His,
Rob