Friday 17 January 2014

New Blog Post: "In Touch Magazine – Charles Stanley - “Our Constant Friend”



2 Timothy 4:16-18 NLT The first time I was brought before the judge, no one came with me. Everyone abandoned me. May it not be counted against them. But the Lord stood with me and gave me strength so that I might preach the Good News in its entirety for all the Gentiles to hear. And He rescued me from certain death. Yes, and the Lord will deliver me from every evil attach and will bring me safely into His kingdom. All glory to God forever and ever! Amen

Many of us have experienced times of abandonment by others just when we needed them most. It could have been a spouse withdrawing emotionally, a co-worker who ignored you, or a close friend who was too busy to help. The life of the apostle Paul teaches us how to avoid discouragement in such situations.
Remember that the Lord is with us always. When we trust Jesus as our Saviour, we enter into a relationship with Him, and His Spirit comes to live in us. Through the Holy Spirit, Jesus remains with us at all times, regardless of the circumstances. He is our Friend – one who will never leave us. And His is the most important friendship we have. Reading our Bible will help us to remember this.
Draw on God’s strength. Through the Holy Spirit, we have access to divine power every minute of the day. When we let go of control and depend on the Lord, we will be able to draw on His strength. Then, if family or friends cause hurt, His presence will provide comfort and help us to forgive them.
Look expectantly for deliverance. Paul testified that the Lord had rescued him and would continue to deliver him from every evil situation. The apostle knew he could always trust God.
Paul face many painful situations without the support of friends. Toward the end of his life, those who cared about him were widely scattered. Yet his attitude remained hopeful because Christ was his constant Friend. Do you know the Saviour? Allow His presence to walk with you throughout your day, and experience the joy His friendship brings.

No comments:

Post a Comment