Do you ever find it hard to reconcile your faith with how things seem to be panning out in your life?
The wonderful thing about following Jesus is that we can still worship him and rejoice in his love even in those times when life is puzzling, difficult things happen, and plans unravel when we expect them to be blessed. I’m in that place at present but God’s love for us, transcends all circumstances and his faithfulness and goodness are from everlasting to everlasting. He promises to be with us always and to strengthen us in every way as we make choices to lean into him whatever may be going on. Habakkuk tells us:
Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Saviour. The Sovereign Lord is my strength; he makes my feet like the feet of a deer. He enables me to stand on the heights. (Habakkuk 3:17-19)
We may think that victory in the Lord is all to do with problems melting away but these verses show us that God is looking to grow a level of trust in our hearts that will keep on rejoicing, even when the problems seem to be winning. Habakkuk declares that as he rejoices in God he is strengthened. In fact, God himself is his strength. How amazing! I am feeling very challenged in life at present as amongst other things have just fractured my shoulder forcing me to give up a possible lovely plan for a new dog. I have cried but am aware the Lord is so close and providing help for Marilyn and I in beautiful ways. I can see his love and care through the care of dear friends around me and Marilyn herself who is doing all she can to help me. Habakkuk says God makes his feet like that of a deer. It challenges me knowing that deer run easily over all terrains. I long to be like that deer that doesn’t get stuck in the mud but instead has strength to run to the heights and see life from heaven’s perspective. It’s awesome that with God even the darkest times can thus become doorways to new growth, vision and empowerment.
Praying that whatever you are dealing with at present you will know him as your wonderful and constant strength and the enabling power of his love for you.
