MY WORD FOR JULY 22 IS TRIALS

My word is July 22^nd  TRIAL

One of my friends has been praying that others see Christ in her and her children.  It seems the more she prays the more things happen.  An incident happened the other day with her older child and she just couldn’t figure it out.  Her daughter is doing “right”, taking the high road, letting others see her pray, reassuring the underdog, however others still treat her badly.  My friend was visiting with a woman that defiantly has God’s favor.  She asked her, “What are you praying for?”  My friend told her and she said “The more we try to be Christ like the more the Lord tests us.  He wants to make sure that we are doing what we are supposed to be doing for Him. God wants to make sure that we will trust Him and see the good and keep pressing on for Him even through the tough times.”

My friend is pressing through the tough times.  The past few years she has made many choices in her life that many wouldn’t do.  It hasn’t been easy for her or her family, but she has trusted in the Lord and always asked for His help.  He has made things happen that she couldn’t have done on her own.  But then on the flipside there are have been trials that she and her family have had to face. 

As hard as it is to press on we all must proceed.  The Lord is making sure that we are ready to follow Him with our heart and soul.  The trials in life are there to make us stronger.  God wants us to make positive out of negative.  He wants us to see our cup half full instead of half empty.  All of the events in our lives, good and bad, work together for the will and purpose of the Lord.  God wants us to grow and be more like His son.  The situations that we deal with are helping us reach the goal that God wants us to accomplish. 

Usually when the times get tough the tough get going.  Get going for God.  Let the tough times make you tougher and stronger.  Pray and trust, have faith; the Lord will guide you through all circumstances.  With Him you will press on through trials faithfully and gracefully. 

James 1:12(NIV)

12 Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.

Dear Lord assist us in understanding that every trial has a purpose.  Even though difficult, we need to somehow take the high road.  We know the only way to make it through difficult situations is by having You with us.  You will help us grow and become the person You want us to be.  During this year strengthen our faith and build our character to be more like Your son. 

Seven Reasons for Trials in Our Lives

1.     Deeper Repentance

2.     Stimulate Spiritual Growth

3.     Teach Obedience from the heart not just the head

4.     Compassion for Others

5.     Strengthen Our Faith and Trust God

6.     Build Godly Character

7.     Prepare us for Ruler-Ship and Service in Gods Kingdom

Found a great article that gave the “SEVEN REASONS FOR TRIALS IN OUR LIVES” Read complete article at http://www.ucg.org/sermon/seven-good-reasons-trials-our-lives/.

Cute story: http://www.sermoncentral.com/sermons/why-does-god-allow-trials-in-our-lives-izak-shipman-sermon-on-g, Why does God allow trials in our lives? Izak Shipman

http://www.ucg.org/sermon/seven-good-reasons-trials-our-lives/ Seven Good Reasons For Trials In Our Lives, Dennis Luker, September 4, 2004