Flopping Fish Its Time To Walk!

Not that I have already attained, or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me.  I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. Philippians 3:12, 14 (NKJV)

Have you ever gone through a tough time where it seems you've been hit with just about everything, including the kitchen sink.  You know what I am speaking about - it's those times where it seems you can't get through one issue before another one pops up to challenge you and your diminishing resources.   There can be various times within our lives where the enemy bombards us in this way, and it can be overwhelming.   When this happens, it can be tempting to give up, and to stop.  

It is important for us, as Christians, to remember we are not alone.  God said He would never leave us nor forsake us (Heb. 13:5).  He is aware of every situation we are going through.  It is also important to remember some other Biblical truths during these times, and not just act according to our feelings.  All too often our feelings will lead us askew and in fact they may very well be the reason we are in the overwhelming predicament we find ourselves. 

Even so, God has a plan to guide us through every situation, but we must be willing to submit to Him, and His ways contained in His Word.  Anything less will be like a willful child refusing their parents leading. 

If the situation we find ourself in is self-inflicted, then we need to stop, repent (turn around), and confess our actions before God.  The first step to relieving any stress we are experiencing is to pray.  

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7 (NKJV)

Another important thing we must include is to have multiple Christian brothers and sisters who are strong in the word, and are able to give good Christian counseling (Proverbs 11:14; 15:22; 24:6).  Any counsel given must be in alignment with God's Word.  All too often we can have well meaning friends, who unfortunately, give horrible advice, and this can cause us to make more poor decisions.  Never accept any advice advocating your being a victim - because you're not.  God is in control, and He has a plan.  We carry the sign of the fish on the emblems covering our vehicles, but this doesn't mean we have to be flopping fish on the ground.  

Q:    Why would God allow for us to go through these types of struggles, especially when He could provide so easily? 

A:    We must understand there is a greater work being performed in us during these tough times, as we are being tested and strengthened in our faith.  

In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ, 1Peter 1:6-7 (NKJV)

True faith is active; it doesn't stop to ponder the odds and decide whether to keep going because it looks favorable.  This means we are to continue to walk in the ways of the Lord, with peace, and assurance even in the midst of tribulation trusting God and His plan for our life.  Anything less than this is our flesh being tempted by the enemy to doubt God's provision, to fear what we are facing, or be anxious about our future and to be angry in it happening to us.  We need to capture these thoughts, get rid of them (2Cor 10:5), and replace them with Scriptural truths opposing them.  

Hey Christian, I want to encourage you today - no matter what you may be facing, God has a perfect plan to guide you through it; even if you don't understand how (Prov. 3:5-6).  Remember these very struggles you are facing are the reason your faith is being strengthened.  As Christian men and women, we have already trusted God with all of our heart, and soul - why wouldn't we trust Him with such small problems in our life.   Let's not be flopping fish, let's get up and walk in faith. 

STUDY QUESTION: According to the Scriptures contained within this devotional, how are we to act in the face of trials?

PERSONAL INVENTORY: Are you seeking God for guidance in everything you are doing?  Do you trust His plan or are you attempting to go it on your own?

APPLICATION: Seek the Lord in prayer.  Lay down anything causing you fear, worry, anxiety, or anger.  Ask Him for forgiveness for doubting His provision, and allow Him to guide you through whatever you are facing.  Trust Him.