Acts 16
We all find ourselves in difficult circumstances and we may be tempted to grumble or complain - yet we must remind ourselves that God does not promise a trouble-free life. On the contrary - John 16:33 and other scriptures tell us that we will have difficulties.
John Piper's team advises us to view God as the only source of happiness and God can produce joy and happiness both eternally and in difficult circumstances. This is what Paul and Silas were experiencing. We don't know what God is doing in our difficulties but we do know that He is working (always!). We must see how God's hand is producing something great and glorious in the midst of the troubles - we may not see it unfold in our lifetime but we do know that such greatness and gloriousness will result...ultimately.
My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God who loves me and who is always doing great things in my life and through my life - thank You Jesus...You are amazing! I am undeserving of such love. I worry and I am selfish, etc. Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them. v25
John Piper's team advises us to view God as the only source of happiness and God can produce joy and happiness both eternally and in difficult circumstances. This is what Paul and Silas were experiencing. We don't know what God is doing in our difficulties but we do know that He is working (always!). We must see how God's hand is producing something great and glorious in the midst of the troubles - we may not see it unfold in our lifetime but we do know that such greatness and gloriousness will result...ultimately.
My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God who loves me and who is always doing great things in my life and through my life - thank You Jesus...You are amazing! I am undeserving of such love. I worry and I am selfish, etc. Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
