In these unprecedented times, we all need some kind of assurance of a good future. Some people find this in different things; singing, sleeping, meditation, building multiple relationships, or therapy. Even as a Christian, it can be hard to find assurance seeing the world fall apart day by day into a dark, deep place. The Lord asks us to love Him unconditionally and remain steadfast because, “Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial…” so that when we reach our time, we will be rewarded. “…for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love Him.” (James 1:12) When one is saved, we will always be able to have the promise of eternal life.
As we dig deeper into His Word, we are instructed to be aware of being taken over by fear, anxiety, and anger. “Be not quick in your spirit to become angry, for anger lodges in the heart of fools.” (Ecclesiastes 7:9) In the simplest way, God had instructed His followers to be slow to anger. People around us can be offensive as that is in our sinful nature, and we should be quick to forgive one another. Many people have different ways of coping with daily struggles that vary, and for sure one can be anger. “When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.” (Psalm 56:3) So many words, people, and things are prone to hurting us on our terribly imperfect earth. We can often feel alone, and sometimes afraid in our walk with the Lord. When we trust in God, He comforts and heals our hearts. But exactly what actions should we take to surrender to the Lord? We should be humbled, have faith, and be persistent in prayer.
When we humble ourselves, it makes it possible for us to have faith and fully submit to the Lord. The bible clearly and repeatedly reminds us to be humble. The book of James tells us to humble ourselves before the Lord and we will be exalted. (James 4:10) Christians are often seen as proud and superior to others, making some people feel less worthy of God’s love, mercy, and sufficient grace. As people see this, they are not only subject to feeling rejected, but act out in anger when deep inside all they crave is unconditional love. Our mission should be to show them that God’s arms are open wide for the forsaken and least deserving. “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28)
Faith is the assurance of things we cannot see. It is often difficult and frustrating to submit to the Lord, not being sure and uncertain about the times to come. Faith still remains to be an extremely rewarding gift that we are given through His Word. “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen… by faith we understand that the universe was created by the word of God, so that what is seen was not made out of things that are visible.” (Hebrews 11:1,3) In this day and age, Atheism is a faith in which a person believes in only things they can see; the physical world. Christians should thrive to minister to those who refuse to see the possibilities of faith in the unknown and in all of God’s creation.
Something that most blind, and even experienced Christians have trouble grasping is the power of prayer. “Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.” (Mark 11:24) This verse combines prayer and faith, illustrating how prayer will make our faith far less questionable and more secure. When we pray, we can leave our troubles at His feet, and focus on what is most important. “Cast all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:7)
Not only does prayer add tremendous strength to our walk with the Lord, but it steers us clear and away from the temptations of sin. “Watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.” (Matthew 26:41) The Holy Hpirit will always warn us when our spirits are under attack, but we don’t always see it because of how tempting the things of this world can be. With prayer and supplication, we are able to rebuke the enemy’s intentions, protecting ourselves from all evil.
If you are to take anything from this passage, it would be that your only hope is in the Lord. When all else is lost or uncertain, we can have full assurance and faith in God’s grace. Spreading this word will bring more hearts to Christ, but even give us assurance of His goodness by salvation. As Psalm 119:30 says, “I have chosen the way of faithfulness; I set your rules before me.” we should thrive to prosper and spread His Word far and wide.
Bella Muniu – 9th Grade