God is Trustworthy with Our Problems
Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.”
Psalm 91:1-2 (NIV)
Growing up, I constantly heard people say the phrase: little kids have little problems, but big kids have bigger problems. I never found that encouraging because we’re saying that if you think you have problems now, just wait. The point is simple-all of us will face difficulties and setbacks. Unfortunately, it’s an inevitable part of life. I can’t say I’ve enjoyed facing more and more problems in my life, but while I’ve learned that big kids have big problems, I’ve also learned that big problems can create big faith. Not many of us would say our faith is formed on the mountaintops or in the good times. Our faith is forged and refined in the fires and adversities of life. Now, whenever I see someone facing a problem, part of me gets excited to think how their faith could grow mighty roots in this season if they keep pressing into God.
Trusting God with our problems also gives us a strong witness to those watching. As people watch us while we’re facing difficult times, they can see where our hope and trust is. The early church exploded because as the church faced big problems and persecution, it created a big faith that captured the attention of those around. They couldn’t understand how people facing problems could have peace, joy and hope when the forecast around them seemed so grim.
I don’t know what you’re facing, but I know God does, and that greater faith and trust await. So, how do we get this faith? The verse above shows us whoever dwells in God’s shelter will find rest. You must get your eyes on God, and you must draw near Him. If you only stare at your problems, you’ll become discouraged. But when you stare at God, your faith will grow. What you focus on will determine your future.
Jewish tradition says the greatest miracle ever performed was splitting the Red Sea. Yet there’s a midrash, like a commentary from rabbis about certain stories in the Old Testament, about Ruven and Shaman who missed the miracle. The sea floor was safe to walk on but muddy. Ruven said, “What is this mud? It’s just like the slime pits of Egypt.” “What’s the difference,” cried Shaman, “mud here, mud there, it’s all the same.” Because they never looked up, they never understood why those on the other side were singing songs of praise. For these two, the miracle never happened because they never saw past their problems. Today, look up. Get your eyes on God!
Application: Remember, your problems are an invitation to trust God and grow your faith.
Prayer: Spend time thinking about God being in the middle of your problems. Imagine Him walking with you as you face them. Quiet your mind and heart, and ask the Spirit if there’s anything He wants to say to you!
“… Our Father in heaven…” Matthew 6:9b (NLT)
- What do You want to say to me today as my Father?
“… may Your name be kept holy.” Matthew 6:9c (NLT)
- What do You want to reveal to me about Your power today?
“May Your Kingdom come soon.” Matthew 6:10a (NLT)
- Help me make Your priorities my priorities today.
“Give us today the food we need,” Matthew 6:11 (NLT)
- Is there anything specific You want me to do with my time or the people I’m around today?
“and forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us” Matthew 6:12 (NLT)
- Reveal to me anyone I need to forgive or ask for forgiveness.
“And don’t let us yield to temptation…” Matthew 6:13a (NLT)
- Is there anywhere I’m vulnerable to temptation?