Thank Me For Your Problems

May 11-Jesus Calling by Sarah Young...

"Thank me for your problems.  As soon as your mind gets snagged on a difficulty, bring it to me in thanksgiving.  Then ask Me to show you My way to handle the situation."  

This is almost laughable because as humans our instinct is not to be thankful for difficulties in fact we are usually down right angry and frustrated.  We don't see problems as possibilities.  We really want a smooth sailing life, am I right?

But in our honest relationship with God, who already knows us inside and out, we can bring our difficult situations, our burdens, our problems, and say, "God this problem does not make me happy, BUT help me to see it the way you do.  Help me to see the possibilities.  Help me to cling to you and draw from your strength.  Fill me with your love.  Give me a new perspective."  We can be blunt and honest with God we don't have to be fake or phony.  Tell Him you are struggling!  I sure do!

Philippians 4: 6


Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

One of my biggest faults (any one of my closest friends know this) is my anxiety.  My anxiety on being a good mother, daughter, sister, friend (I know I'm a pretty decent wife, only because John is sweet enough to tell me so all the time).  I could waste the day away in worry or being anxious if I didn't go to Christ with my worries and fears.  He gives me strength.  He allows me to be thankful in the midst of difficult situations.  He helps me to hold my head up high and be confident even when on the inside my knees are shaking and my heart is pounding.

John 14: 27


Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

As I am writing to you I just got a call from my Pastor to speak briefly in both services, and already I am nervous, but I am going to ask God for His peace and His joy, and for His strength.  God has a funny way of keeping us close by, by putting us in situations where we realize we cannot do them without him!!! I love that!  Because sometimes I'm proud enough to believe I can do things in my own strength! Silly Kristi, remember you can do all things through CHRIST who strengthens YOU!