Faith

A second Wind

I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13

How strong are you? How important is it for you to be strong? In what ways would your life be better if you could battle every foe, overcome every obstacle, win every race, endure every heartache, beat all the odds and always be a winner? You already have within your grasp the wherewithal to be that person, not out of pride or a desire to win, but out of faith and a desire to trust. God with us is our saving grace, the one who lifts us when fall, embraces us when we are lonely and chilled by the winters of life. He keeps us above the fray. He gives us our second wind when we are breathless with fear and uncertainty and helps us finish the race, a winner not because of our efforts or because we finished first, but because we finished at all, with His help.

Trust

Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you. Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10

Stronger than you think

 In Genesis 37 we read the story of family treachery. The coat of many colors was tainted with blood. Jacob was convinced it was the blood of his beloved son, Joseph. Though much loved by his father Joseph was resented by his brothers. Relationships sink or swim on as little as this. None of the family could predict what God could and would do with this act of betrayal. The story is a reminder of how important it is to be absolutely certain God’s plan is greater and more intricately connected to end results than anything we can do. Trust in the Lord. Be strong under fire. Make the most of who you are. God has promised to be with you, even when those around you sell you out, life hands you bitter gall instead of ambrosia, health fails, and trouble bubbles. You are stronger than you think, not because of who you are, but because of who God is.

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This message of inspiration will also appear in the One-February issue of Happenstance, a digital magazine available by subscription. For a look at past issues go to http://issuu.com/vandermeerbooks. Your comments will be appreciated.