Courage in Troublesome Times

Confidence in Troublesome Times
READ | Romans 8:35-39
 
Life is continually changing. At times I tell myself that if just a few pressing issues resolve, my days will be calmer. But as soon as those problems are settled, some new challenge always pops up. Even globally, we’re in a constant state of flux. The economy rises and then spirals downward. Gas prices increase and unemployment falls. A new conflict flares up every few months. Since we live in a fallen world, trouble is part of our reality. Life will never settle down to the point that we can sail along with uninterrupted ease.
 
Thankfully, God guides believers through times of turbulence (Psalm 23). He is the Good Shepherd who constantly abides with His world-weary lambs. Jesus vowed to His disciples, “I will not leave you as orphans” (John 14:18). And His promise was fulfilled in the person of the Holy Spirit, who was sent to indwell and care for each of God’s followers. Paul poetically described the Spirit as a seal placed around believers until they are called to their heavenly home. In other words, He provides a protective barrier against evil forces desiring to snatch us from God’s hand.
 
In the verses leading up to today’s reading, Paul defined his audience as the Lord’s children (Rom. 8:16). So let me be very clear that the promise of a holy protective presence is only for those who have received Jesus Christ as Savior. No one’s life will always be calm. But believers are assured of a Companion in the dark hours. You can be confident that God’s goodness and love will surround you until you dwell in His house forever. (Psalm 23:6).
 
yours in Christ Jesus
Johnny G. Camarillo

READ | Romans 8:28-34
 
Recently, two Chinese women shared their father’s story with me. He was arrested in a roundup of house church members and given a choice—deny Christ or go to jail. The man spent 20 years imprisoned for his faith.
 
I was moved to tears by this brother’s godly testimony. He understood that God was in control of his life, and that realization gave him the courage to please his Father regardless of the repercussions.
 
Romans 8:28 teaches that “God causes all things to work together for good to those who love [Him].” But relying on that guarantee gets tough when we’re in the midst of trials. The first few words of the verse—“And we know” (emphasis added)—provide a hint about how Christians trust the Lord to keep His promise. We face adversity courageously when we make a habit of finding the Lord’s fingerprints on prior situations in our life.
 
While God causes good to come from our experiences, He doesn’t necessarily initiate them. Psalm 103:19 says, “His sovereignty rules over all” (emphasis added). Other forces are at work in the world, but the Father’s power reigns supreme. Satan may touch our life with pain, but only because the Lord lets him do so. And He gives permission only when a situation fits His ultimate purpose.
 
Regardless of the tragedies we face, God’s commitment remains the same—He makes good out of bad just as He has always done. Paul knew the promise was true, and so do I. Examine your life for evidence of the Lord at work, and you will be assured as well.
 
yours in Christ Jesus
Johnny G. Camarillo
 
 
 

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