Names of God: Through Thanksgiving & ChristmasSample

Jesus gathers the disciples together prior to His arrest and crucifixion to encourage them and prepare them for what they will face. He desires that they will have peace in Him even though they will have trouble and tribulation in the world.

Jesus makes it clear that those who follow Him will have trouble, but He promises that in the end they will be victorious. It is an incorrect assumption for a believer to think that if trouble comes then they are out of the will of God. Jesus’ followers have been tortured, persecuted, imprisoned, slandered, and killed. As humans, we tend to believe that love comes from achievement and is rewarded with success. When things go wrong in our lives we ask, “What did I do to deserve this? What did I do wrong? Is this punishment?” But in the midst of difficult circumstances, seasons of pain, and unexplainable trials, God’s love for us remains unchanged. Our confidence must rest in that knowledge. Our assurance must be grounded in the certainty of God’s presence and great love for us. God’s love for me never fails, even when I deliberately disobey Him.

Can the Lord say the same about your love for Him when you are being stretched, tested, and wounded in the battles you face in this human life? What challenging and scary circumstances have caused you to doubt God’s promise that all will end victorious? Are you only using success and achievement in your life as your measure for God’s love?

Father God, You are the source of my love and peace. I thank You that I battle in this world from a place of victory. Help me to face the hardships of this world with joy and cheer, without fear of what may happen to me. Lord, help me to rest on Your promises for me and not my desire for a trouble-free life. Lord, let all of the trials that I face while on earth glorify Your power and Your presence in my life. Lord, show me how to keep You lifted high above all of my troubles on this earth. In Jesus’ name. Amen.