by Practical Christianity Foundation (PCF)
The life of the follower of Jesus Christ is different only in one major thing from the lives of other fellow human beings. It is the life of a sinner saved by grace! Therefore, its day-by-day steps are ordered by God and its forward progress is guided by the precepts outlined in the Bible. Certainly, like everyone else, Christians suffer from the hardships and pitfalls of earthly living. In most situations, Christians are inclined to react to circumstances with natural tendencies common to all men. However, the child of God has the Bible to lean on, which brings to bear godly instructions and serves as a reliable source of courage, strength, and wisdom.
The following Bible verses show some of the practical ways in which God's Word can be applied to situations directly relating to the daily challenges of Christian-living in this world:
- "Your word is a lamp to my feet And a light to my path." Psalm 119:105
If we recognize that our life in Christ is a new life, then we should also realize that we need a guiding light to continue with our new journey.
- Only the Word of God does the work of God in our hearts. Psalm 119:9-16
The only way we are able to discern the light of God's Word directing our path is when we commit to subject ourselves to God's Word. His Word alone will keep us from offending God with our persistence in sin. God's Word alone will keep our ways pure and pleasing to God. God's Word will keep us from wandering away and falling into the pitfalls of a godless life.
- God is absolutely reliable. Deuteronomy 31:8
The Lord God is the Author and executor of His own Word. He is actually the One Who leads us as we travel through this passing world. Completely depending on His Word, we can look at life's circumstances through His promises and rise above disappointments and fear. We should not deny or avoid the realities of our circumstances. But we should face each situation knowing and believing that God will not fail us nor will He forsake us. The only way to apply these precepts is to treasure His Word in our hearts.
- Pray with confidence and faith. Philippians 4:4-7
Life's circumstances are real. But God's sovereign authority over all circumstances is absolute. We should not look toward God through the veil of our difficulties. We should size up our situations from the perspective of God our Father Who is absolutely sovereign over all circumstances. Focusing on the gravity of situations as we pray, will make us anxious and less trusting. However, looking to God as we petition for help will stir in our hearts confidence and faith on our reliable and gracious God. God Himself will guard our hearts and will give us His peace.
- God's Peace is with us. John 14:27
Hardships and difficulties are conditions which characterize our world. However, God has chosen to give us a reliable means to overcome them as we experience occasions of difficult circumstances. He has left His Peace in our hearts. He puts our hearts at ease by exhorting us not to be troubled or be afraid. His Peace is the source of practical confidence working in our hearts giving us the courage to move forward looking to Jesus our Lord, the Author and Finisher of our faith.
- The righteous cry for help and the Lord answers. Psalm 34:17
God's children do indeed face trouble and difficult circumstances. But instead of collapsing under the weight of trials and tribulations, they call upon the Lord our God and He will answer. The Lord is faithful to His own Word.
- Life and service to God in this world come at a cost. 2 Corinthians chapter 11
Living as the followers of Jesus Christ and serving God in this world bear a great cost. Discipleship is costly. However, God provides sufficient strength and courage to help us continue as His children and servants even in the face of hostilities hurled at us for the sake of Jesus Christ. Christians face both regular hardships common to all men and specific persecution for serving God. But God's grace is sufficient to enable us to live the life He has planned for us to the fullest. So be of good courage.
The Bible is full of prayerful verses that will give us confidence, courage, and faith in the face of adversities just like David: ...He is at my right hand, I will not be shaken. Or, When I am afraid, I will put my trust in Thee. In God, whose word I praise, In God I have put my trust; I shall not be afraid. What can [mere] man do to me? Or, You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance.
Remember! God is not only our Creator and Redeemer. He is also our Father!
Practical Christianity Foundation has helpful publications, weekly devotional readings, and blogs which you can use during your study of God's Word and daily devotional meditation. We invite you to contact us at pcfbooks.com to learn more and for assistance in selecting the materials that you need. Whether it is for your studies, or simply seeking guidance for your devotional reading, we will be happy to come alongside you and minister to you from the Word of God and encourage you to lean on Him.
