Saturday, October 22, 2011

Psalms of Discipleship--Principle #41--Grace--October 22, 2011

Hello my dear friends! Greetings to you.

Everyone has problems (even the spiritual people do too). Today's Psalms of Discipleship is a grace-driven reminder that no matter how big our problems might be, God is much bigger. One of the keys to the experiencing the victorious Christian life is gaining the right perspective. When my problems become bigger than God, I have demeaned Him and reduced Him to my level. However, when I see my God is bigger than my problems, I have not only brought glory to Him but have taken that healthy step of faith that will help me walk through the problems. My view of God will be enhanced and I will be reminded that He is my refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.

Resting in His big promises even as I face my small problems,

Denny

Psalms of Discipleship—Principle #41

Life Principles For Those Who Choose To Follow Jesus And Live The Discipled Life

Key Scripture: 1 God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble. 2 Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change And though the mountains slip into the heart of the sea; 3 Though its waters roar and foam, Though the mountains quake at its swelling pride. Selah. Psalm 46:1-3

Core Value: Grace

How big is your problem? How big is your God? Herein lies two important questions that each disciple of Jesus must not only honestly ask, but also answer truthfully. When one goes through a personal life crisis, it may seem to be a problem that has no answer and no prospects of a good outcome. Be it a health problem, a career problem, or a relationship problem, we have all faced challenging circumstances that severely test our faith. We go into the problem knowing that God has an answer for everything. And yet, when we are fighting to keep our wits, we may doubt if He has an answer for our problem. . . this time.

Here is a lesson that we need to be constantly reminded of: it is much easier to study about and to know God’s character and His promises before the storm hits, so that when life becomes hard we know what we believe no matter what may come our way.

This is the same kind of faith the Apostle Paul experienced when he said, “…for I know whom I have believed and I am convinced that He is able to guard what I have entrusted to Him…” 2 Tim 1:12

The quality disciple is able to trust Jesus with everything, knowing “He’s got the whole world in His hands.” That would include our world (with all our problems) too.

Principle #41 & Personal Application: The quality disciple lives in God’s protective care and experiences His comfort and perfect peace.

• It is by the grace of God we can find a safe refuge and strength when we are in trouble.

• It is by the grace of God we can resist the urge to panic and be overcome by a terrifying fear that would seek to overwhelm us.

• It is by the grace of God we can live in God’s care and experience His comfort and perfect peace.

Reflect & Respond: Some Really Good Questions To Ponder…

What kind of refuge and strength does the Lord provide to me?

What kinds of things cause me to fear? How can this passage of Scripture encourage me when I become afraid?

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, You are my refuge and my strength. You are my very present help when I am in trouble. Because of Your greatness and Your grace, I will not fear when my circumstances seek to fill my heart with doubt and unbelief. By faith, may I keep my eyes upon You.

The Essential Core Values Of The Quality Disciple Are…
Grace—Worship—Bible Study—Prayer—Community—Service—Evangelism

Denny Bates & Something New Christian Publishers © 2011 All rights reserved.

www.dennybates.com
http://thequalitydisciple.blogspot.com/

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