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Gretchen Mure Rodriguez

Got Problems? (by Len Rodriguez)

“These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” -John 16:33
“Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” -John 14:27

When facing a situation that is getting ugly and big, we call it a problem. In the dictionary one meaning of the word problem is "a matter or situation regarded as unwelcome or harmful and needing to be dealt with and overcome." The explanation is that a problem is something we create ourselves, by the way we view what is happening. It is a problem when we view it, or regard it as a problem. However, when we view these things as opportunities, instead of problems, trusting God to create a testimony, then we are completely resting in God's ability.

When we do not have peace and cannot rest in the midst of battle, it denotes that there is fear which forces us to use our own strength and skill to achieve a solution to the problem. Having fear is the opposite of faith.1 John 4:18 says, “There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves torment. But he who fears has not been made perfect in love.” If we struggle instead of abiding in peace, we are ready to be defeated quickly.

The point is HOW we view the problems, circumstances, trials, and afflictions. Even doing spiritual warfare, must be done from a platform of trust, peace, and love. The Lord said in John 16:33, "Take heart, I have overcome the world." Take heart also means “be a good cheer, be encouraged” and implies trust. Trust in the dictionary means "let a thing be settled by another, without intervening directly in it; or a firm belief in the reliability, truth, ability, or strength of someone or something." What God means is that we must live our lives from a place of love and peace because He has overcome the world. We should live from a place where we do not rely on our own strength, knowing that when we are weak, He shows Himself strong. Remember, Jesus has already won the victory for us! Do not be afraid, only believe! ~Len Rodriguez

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Comments

  1. Elsie Montgomery8/05/2012

    Interesting... we both wrote about the same truth today!

    ReplyDelete

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