My Gracious Lord, I give my praise to You because in whatever circumstances I find myself, You have made me an overcomer in them all. And, though the tests and trials I am facing are forming a river across my path that is deep and wide, I know that You will help me get to the other side. Because of Your love and concern, I am blessed more than I could ever expect. You have healed me from the ravages of sin, sickness and past failures. You have caused me to prosper when all signs pointed to disappointment and loss. When obstacles are strewn across my path, You removed them in response to my faith in You. When circumstances highlight my weaknesses and failures, You reminded me that I am a “new creation” surrounded by Your love and empowered for success. You never let me forget that I’ve been given the gift of eternal life and Your assurance that You will stand with me in all things.
I have come to realize that my testing is far from meaningless, for as I go through each one there is much to learn. Trials are not meant to reduce me to rubble, but force me to draw closer to You. As I endure the troubled waters of my life, You toughen me so I can persevere through hard times. When I have to walk by faith, it increases my strength and ability to endure. In life, I’ve encountered disappointment and heartache, but I do not want to focus on what my life has not been … instead, I want to focus on my potential as I remain rooted and grounded in You. Many of the things that seem to be impenetrable are easily taken down as I stay in step with You and Your will. When I ask something of You and do not receive it, I must remain patient and listen for Your voice telling me to wait patiently. Trust and steadfast devotion must become my guiding principles.
One of the things standing in the way of my becoming more like You is the strongholds I’ve allowed my enemies to build and reinforce so that I am powerless to escape them. Because of my neglect and lack of diligence in ridding myself of these influences, I’ve allowed bad habits and behaviors to become the norm in my life. These flaws become even more glaring as I try to emulate You. When I want to move out or move on with You, they become raging currents wanting to take me in a different direction. When I see hope waiting for me on the other side, I am held prisoner on this side. Free me from my shackles and lift me above the tide so I can cross over to a promised land of peace, prosperity and love. I believe that through Your blood I’ve been set free … help me walk in that freedom. Show me how to experience victory by leaning on my faith and Your strength. As I do, I know I will see the river that is deep and wide become a dried up river bottom. And it’s in Jesus’ name I pray. AMEN!!
I Corinthians 10:13 No temptation has seized you that is not common to all men. And God is faithful; He will not let You be tempted beyond what you can bear.