I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. (Philippians 4:13 – NKJV)
As citizens of the Kingdom of God, we confidently declare the verse above. This is as a result of us relying on God to help us through every crisis in our lives. We’ve been saved, delivered, washed, protected, provided for, blessed abundantly, and loved beyond our wildest dreams. When we are troubled, or in trouble, we know that we can call upon our “very present help” and be sure that He will show up.
But what about when we don’t recognise we are in a crisis? According to the Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary, a “crisis” can be defined in several ways. Two of those ways are:
- An emotionally significant event or radical change of status in a person’s life, or
- An unstable or crucial time, or state of affairs in which a decisive change is impending, especially one with the possibility of a highly undesirable outcome.
If we accept these definitions, it is easy to see that a ‘crisis’ can be present in the best of situations. For instance, we would not normally equate acquiring a vehicle with a crisis. But if that change in status causes a sudden, irrational surge of pride bordering on arrogance for those who do not own a vehicle, then beloved, we are in a crisis. Thankfully, we have Christ for the crisis. James 4: 6 says, “But He (The Holy Spirit) giveth more grace. Wherefore He saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace to the humble.” (KJV).
If God blesses us with a new job, or promotion so that we can now afford what we couldn’t and we see a brother or sister in need, but we shut up our bowels of mercy and compassion, beloved we are in a crisis. Again, thankfully, we have Christ for the crisis. He encourages us to love one another. 1 John 4:7-8 says, Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love. (KJV).
After God has blessed us with a newer, larger home, if our time of cleaning it, or enjoying having friends over, keeps us from assembling together, in worship with God’s people, then beloved we are in a crisis. Turning to the Christ of the crisis is the only answer. In Matthew 6:33, Jesus Himself tells us, But seek ye first the Kingdom of God, and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. (KJV).
PRAYER
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your Holy Spirit which leads us into all truth. Thank You for showing us that we could experience a crisis even in the midst of Your blessings. Please forgive us for the hidden sins of pride, indifference, and ingratitude. We promise to be more faithful to You Lord so that we will be victorious over every life crisis.
We praise You in the Name of The Father, The Son, and the Holy Ghost. Amen.
Read: Philippians 4: 11-13; 1 Timothy 6: 6-12; Psalm 46:1
Bible Rreading Guide: Proverbs 15:11-20; Acts 14:8-28; I Kings 8:22-66; I Kings 9:1-9
