The Tribune

By CARLOS SPENCER

It is conceivable that there are persons who are grappling with various challenges at this time (illness, finances, relationships, employment, et cetera.) This is the reality of life’s journey.

Satan is extremely busy at all times, particularly in the lives of believers. Scripture (1 Peter 5:8) advises us to “be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the Devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour.”

Life is not meant to be easy. Even Jesus had his difficult moments. He was constantly mocked and scorned by the people of his day, even the ruling class. He also died a painful death at Calvary for our sins. But Jesus was on a mission from our Creator and could not be dissuaded or defeated from carrying out His Father’s business.

Matthew 18:11 (KJV) tells us: “For the Son of man is come to save that which was lost.” Luke 19:10 makes the same point, almost verbatim: “For the son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.” Nothing about this life is an accident.

We are here to glorify God and we do this by prayer, group worship, a study of His word, keeping His commandments, living in peace, harmony and concern for others, etc. At the end of the day, Believers look to eternal life whereby we are called to give an account to God for the stewardship of our lives which He has given to us.

Hebrews 9:27 (KJV) puts it all into perspective for us: “And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgement.” Genesis 3:19 (KJV) makes the point slightly differently: “In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread, till thou return unto the ground; for out of it wast thou taken: for dust thou art, and unto dust shalt thou return. This is perspective!”

Our greatest weapon in coping with life’s challenges is our relationship with God, and knowledge of His word. God is love; God is the giver of life. We know this only too well, but many of us fail to look to our Creator who will always hold our hands when we earnestly and sincerely seek His help.

“And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose.” Romans 8:28 (KJV)

God is present in “all things” and He works for our good, to fulfil His purpose, once we have met His requirements. Amen! Thanks be to God for the sharing of His word!