Trust in God!
What a Summer! The Lord took us all through various trials and triumphs. I often thought of a song we sing at the 8:00AM service. It blends a favorite hymn with some beautiful Praise lyrics.
"Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine. He's been my fourth man in the fire time after time. . ."
When we persevere through difficulties (just read the weekly prayer requests), of illness, injuries, leadership changes, job needs, grief, and uncertainties, the Lord promises to be with us (Psalm 37; Matthew 28:20; Romans 8:35-39). As a church family, we can remind one another of this and pray for one another.
". . . Born of His Spirit, washed in His blood, and what He did for me on Calvary is more than enough. . ."
The Holy Spirit, in us and Christ's saving work on the cross encourages us to trust Him. No one else has done that for us! (Romans 5:8; 1 John 4:9, 10). Nothing we do can ever earn us salvation. Our behavior will reflect God's presence in our life, but Jesus' blood is what gives us access to heaven.
"Perfect submission, all is at rest. I know the author of tomorrow has ordered my steps. . ."
As we continue to learn from the Lord and submit to His ways, we will experience a restful peace. Afterall, He knows our circumstances and will guide us as our Good Shepherd (Mark 6:34; John 10:14; Revelation 7:17). This, alone gives us reassurance of all things working together for the good of those who love God (Romans 8:28, my paraphrase).
". . . So this is my story, and this is my song. I'm praising my risen King and Savior all the day long!"
Our individual stories all have various highs and lows, but our songs can come together in praise to Jesus - our risen King and Savior. Whether we are singing hymns, blends, or contemporary praise choruses, we honor God with our corporate worship every weekend. I look forward to sharing that with you all in the weeks and months ahead - whatever comes our way!
"I trust in God, my Savior! The One who will never fail, He will never fail!"
Dianne Repsholdt