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Trying Times Heb 2:17-18 (KJV) “ (17) Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto [his] brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things [pertaining] to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people. (18) For in that he himself hath suffered being tempted, he is able to succour them that are tempted.” Unexpected trials and temptations usually come suddenly and without warning. Sometimes they are so subtle, that at first they are almost unrealizable. Other times they are so overwhelming and pronounced that like a flood they seem unstoppable. Jesus came to earth in the flesh and experienced all of these and more. He knows what it is like when we are tempted. He knows what it is like to have to suffer, and at the same time be offered a way out that would feel so good to the flesh, but be totally wrong. No, He did not sin. He overcame every challenge. But He knows what we go through, and His heart’s cry for us is made in constant intercession on our behalf. Heb 7:25 (KJV) “(25) Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them.” His intercession for us is the most awesome part, but there is a part of that verse that we must not leave out: “…He is able to save them that come to Him...” Coming to Him is a crucial part of surviving trying times! One of the most important battles the enemy hopes to win is the battle that keeps the Christian from continuing to seek the Lord during difficulties. We are nothing without our Savior. We will be powerless and confused if we don’t turn to the Lord for wisdom and strength, even if we don’t feel like doing so. If it were easy enough for us to do it without Him, He would not have had to come. Heb 4:14-16 (KJV) “(14) Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast [our] profession. (15) For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as [we are, yet] without sin. (16) Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.” Many times we fail to overcome during trying times because of an unwillingness to visit the throne of grace in time of need. We also fail because we don’t spend an adequate amount of time at the throne. Yes, there is more there for those who seek with a whole heart. That takes a willingness to forsake the other things that demand our attention and affection; it takes humbling ourselves and spending time in His word at His feet during trying times. 1Pe 5:6-11 (KJV) “(6) Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: (7) Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you. (8) Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: (9) Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world. (10) But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle [you]. (11) To him [be] glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.” -Kurt Thurston
June Newsletter 2005 | Thy Seed | Trying Times | Pastor's Journal June 2004 Ministry Minded part 1 of 3 | The Suddenlies of God part 3 of 3 |
Biblical Counseling for Leaders
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