Tests and Trials

Read pages 193-200 of Stephen Canup’s book, "Knowing Jesus Intimately: A Relationship of Love-motivated, Spirit-empowered Obedience," which is available for free reading in Pando Books and Edovo.

TAKEAWAY HIGHLIGHT

Sometimes you may feel like giving up because you are stressed out and

overwhelmed by the situation you are facing. The devil wants us to spend

our days in anxiety, frustration, fear, disbelief and feeling distanced from

God. The enemy wants us to focus on our circumstances, but that never

helps. Instead, we must stop thinking about what is wrong and fix our eyes

on God. He is in control. His timing is perfect. He is always with us. He is

ready, willing and able to help us in every situation no matter how bad.

“Through the power of the Holy Spirit, believers have the ability to endure

difficulty and accomplish whatever the Lord calls them to do. By claiming

the adequacy of Christ, we can face every circumstance with a sense of conf-

idence—not in ourselves but in God, who is capable.” Dr. Charles Stanley

PRACTICAL APPLICATION

Give some thought to how some previous trials and tests worked out

for you in the past, and think about what you were able to learn from

them. What challenges are you going through today? In light of what

you read above, are you trusting God in the midst of your tests now?