CIO Era Magazines

The book of Ecclesiastes teaches us that life has seasons. You may be going through a season of difficulty, but your location is not your destination.

 

Nothing (apart from the word of God) is permanent. The pain and suffering which Jesus had to endure for the cross was only for a moment because there was a joy set before Him. When you have God, there are better days ahead.

 

But what exactly should you do in times of crisis?

 

1.      Fear not

 

Jesus said, “fear not, only believe.” Mark 5:36

 

 

 

 

 

The scriptures say “fear not” 365 times, one for each day of the year. Fear has torment. Perfect love casts out fear. In Matthew 14:30, Peter walked on water based on a word from God. The moment Peter took his eyes off Jesus and focused on the storm, fear crept in and he began to sink. Fear authorises your sinking. Isaiah 43:1 says “fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; you are Mine”. God has called you by your name. You belong to him. He has redeemed you. Whatever may be concerning you about your career, education or other areas of your life, do not fear. Trust God.

 

2.      Encourage yourself in the Lord

 

“Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of his might.” Ephesians 6:10 NKJV

 

Encourage yourself that your trials and tribulations are working for you. You will often come out from trials wiser, stronger and better. It is well with your soul even when things look uncertain or others appear to be mocking you. God is too faithful to fail. There is always hope for your future because the Lord who has brought you this far will surely take you thus far.

 

3.      Seek God’s face

 

“if My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land.” 2 Chronicles 7:14 NKJV

 

Pray and spend time with God in a way you have not before. For example, if you pray every morning, try and pray at nights also. You may need to spend some time in fasting or take time out by yourself and go on a retreat, if your lifestyle can accommodate it. Spend time considering creation and see the power of God. If you feel hesitant about whether it is worthwhile, remember that God has not forgotten about you. He does not get tired of your prayers because Isaiah 40:28 tells us that God “neither faints nor is weary”. He increases your strength to keep going.

 

4.      Trust God

 

“as for God, his way is perfect; the word of the Lord is proven; He is a shield to all who trust him.” Psalm 18:30 NKJV

 

Even if it feels as though God is fighting against you, say to yourself , like Job, “though he slay me yet I trust him” (Job 13:15). Trust Him with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. Acknowledge him in all your ways and He shall direct your path. (Proverbs 3:5-6)

 

5.      Let patience have her perfect way

 

When you are going through a difficult time, count it all joy, knowing that your faith is building patience. Allow patience to grow and work for you. (James 1:2-3)

 

You are being perfected and made optimum for your next phase. You are being adequately prepared. When opportunities meet you unprepared, it can often cause frustration. However, when opportunity meets preparation, it brings triumph, breakthrough, and testimonies.