CONFIDENCE IN CRISIS
God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble. So we will not fear when earthquakes come and the mountains crumble into the sea.
Psalm 46:1-2 (NLT)
Do you believe that God will help you in times of trouble? Don't give the Sunday School answer in your head. Be honest—do you trust that He is there for you specifically? Because you might believe that He is a refuge and strength for others who are more faithful followers. For people that you perceive deserve His love more than you. But do you really claim the above verses for yourself?
He is there for you specifically. What a wonderfully comforting thought.
Consider the implication of Psalm 46:2. It doesn't say that the earthquakes won't happen. It doesn't say that the mountains won't crumble into the sea. It simply says we don't have to be afraid when those things happen. Our hope goes beyond our circumstances. Unfortunately, I believe many have concluded that God either doesn't exist or that if He does, He doesn't care because He didn't prevent the negative circumstances in their lives. They prayed for a sick loved one who didn't get better. They suffered an injustice at the hands of another. Maybe they simply experienced a lack in some vital area. And so, in their frustration and perhaps bitterness, they've walked away from God, believing He walked away from them first.
My friend, whatever your circumstances have been in this life, God sees, knows, and loves you. He didn't promise that life would be easy or pain-free. In fact, Jesus promised that in this world, we would have hardships. But He assured us that we can take heart because He has overcome the world (John 16:33).
May your life be full of blessings. And when it seems like it is not, may your faith and trust abound.
APPLICATION: Ask God to increase your confidence in Him, especially in seasons of struggle or crisis. Spend some time searching the Scriptures for stories of people who trusted God (Abraham is a great example—begins in Genesis 12) or verses specifically about trust. Jot a few down in your journal or phone where you can refer back to them regularly.
PRAYER: Lord, help me remember that You are, in fact, Lord of all. Grant that I might have confidence in crisis, trusting that You are my refuge and strength. In Jesus' name, amen.
“… Our Father in heaven…” Matthew 6:9b (NLT)
- What do You want to say to me today as my Father?
“… may Your name be kept holy.” Matthew 6:9c (NLT)
- What do You want to reveal to me about Your power today?
“May Your Kingdom come soon.” Matthew 6:10a (NLT)
- Help me make Your priorities my priorities today.
“Give us today the food we need,” Matthew 6:11 (NLT)
- Is there anything specific You want me to do with my time or the people I’m around today?
“and forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us” Matthew 6:12 (NLT)
- Reveal to me anyone I need to forgive or ask for forgiveness.
“And don’t let us yield to temptation…” Matthew 6:13a (NLT)
- Is there anywhere I’m vulnerable to temptation?