Trials-Are You Suffering Today?

Proverbs 18:10 “The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run into it and are safe.” (NIV)
The Lord has shown me over the past year that if we trust and obey-God will see us through trials and temptations.  Last winter I had great plans for the year 2007 and soon learned God has the ultimate plan.
In November 2006-my mother became ill.  She had to have an operation in January and then soon realized she had another problem.  The new problem was the dreaded “C” word- CANCER.   This type of trial can draw you close to the Lord.  The pas t six months has been a time of the Lord drawing Mom and I closer to him because we were totally dependent on him.  The Lord guided us to the Dr’s who could help her and give me encouragement and support.  So, now praise the Lord-she is on the road to recovery.
Today, you may be facing a trial or temptation.  The decision of how to handle it – will help set your destiny for eternity.  During difficult times-it is easy to blame God or question God.  God loves us and would never do anything that was not the best for us.  So, the best response to a trial is to: 1.) Pray without ceasing 2.) Read your Bible daily 3.) Fast and pray and spend time with Christians who love and care about you.  Finally, remember the Lord will see you through.
Today, if you are suffering or hurting and need prayer-please call 395-4210 and ask for Pastor Joyce Dreiman (If you get the answering machine-please leave a message and she will call you back).  Pastor Dreiman will be glad to pray for you and encourage you.  Pastor Joyce Dreiman is an Ordained Pastor of Ring of Fire Evangelistic Ministry located at 300 W. Chestnut in Olney, IL.

James 1:2 “Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of you faith develops perserverance.” (NIV)