Thursday, December 7, 2017

Scripture and Prayer: Trials (James 1:2-3)

Hello again, everyone! I hope your week has been great so far.

One thing I've recently started doing was writing out scripture verses and then reflecting on them by writing out a corresponding prayer to God for each piece of scripture. I got the idea from a company called Cultivate What Matters and they sell journals called Write the Word. I figured I could do the same thing even if I didn't purchase the exact journal and start my quiet time with that.

I have found that writing out God's word has given me so much more strength. I don't know about you, but it is much easier for me to remember things if I physically write them down. For me, I also understand what I am reading better when I take the time to write out the passage because as I am writing, my brain is also processing and dissecting big ideas down. Writing out prayers is my way of communicating my deepest praise and requests to God. And I will always be able to look back on my journals and remember God's faithfulness and see how my relationship with God has progressed and grown.

We all go through challenges and obstacles. No one can say their life is completely easy and fun 100% of the time. I had a coach in high school tell me that when she went through hard times, she loved turning her Bible to James and being reminded of God's truth. So that is where I will begin:

"Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know the testing of your faith produces perseverance." -James 1:2-3 (NIV)

Father,
Thank You for giving me Your spirit and promising to watch over me all the days of my life. I know I will undergo a variety of challenges throughout my life. I ask that You would continue to remind me that I will never go through dark valleys alone. You are always with me and are my Comforter, Protector, Savior, and Friend. Protect me from the enemy's weapons and help me to always look to You for guidance. May I never lose faith in Your goodness and power. Lord, when storms come my way, may I be reminded that You are the only one who can calm the storms and restore true peace. Call me out to walk on the water and run into Your loving arms instead of looking at my problems. You ask me to live by faith because You love me and want me to be closer to You. You have given me so many resources and blessings to help me endure trials and You will never fail me. I can look back on my darkest days and see how You were with me and working for my good in the midst of my hurt. Thank You for being sovereign and for being constant. I love you.
Amen.

Whatever trials you are facing(or will face), God is alongside you. It can be hard to feel his presence but he is still there and ready to help you. You do not go through pain alone. We have a God who sees us and hears us. We are precious to him. Rest assured that God will never ever leave you nor forsake you.

Peace and Joy,
Chloe

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