Monday, April 30, 2018

Pastor's Ponderings, April 30, 2018

God’s Joy Defeats Every Sorrow

In the 1994 movie, the Lion King, the character Scar says to his captured mouse, “Life's not fair, is it? You see, I... well, I shall never be king. And you... shall never see the light of another day. Adieu.” While his tone and delivery were quite amusing, this sentiment about life’s fairness often times feels true. Many of us have endured great challenges in life. We have lost loved ones or have suffered chronic illnesses. Some of us have experienced loss of employment, painful divorce, sudden onset of diseases, or crippling depression. Still others have suffered feeling of helplessness, hopelessness, anxiety and despair. 

When we turn to the Bible, we recall King David’s troubles.  He faced a great battlefield defeat and loss of his family. In addition, he faced death from his own soldiers, but he encouraged himself (1 Samuel 30:6). We can thank God because He tells us not to be dejected and sad because the joy of the Lord is our strength (Nehemiah 8:10). Terrible things may surround us, but God promises that He will lift up our head in victory over our enemies and we will sing songs of victory (Psalm 27:6). When we have come through our trials and tribulations, we are assured that we will be victorious (Job 23:10).

The Bible says that those who love God will have a lot of trouble, but God will eventually deliver them from all (Psalm 34:19) For those who feel depressed when remembering their past, know that God has a great future for them.  For those who get upset hearing about the political world, remember that God is still in charge of everything.  For those who think their night will never end, remember your tears may endure for a time, but God’s joy is coming in your morning (Psalm 30:5b)!  

1 Samuel 30:6
New International Version (NIV)
David was greatly distressed because the men were talking of stoning him; each one was bitter in spirit because of his sons and daughters. But David found strength in the Lord his God.

Nehemiah 8:10
New International Version (NIV)
10 Nehemiah said, “Go and enjoy choice food and sweet drinks, and send some to those who have nothing prepared. This day is holy to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.”

Psalm 27:6
New International Version (NIV)
Then my head will be exalted above the enemies who surround me; at his sacred tent I will sacrifice with shouts of joy; I will sing and make music to the Lord.

Job 23:10
New International Version (NIV)
10 But he knows the way that I take; when he has tested me, I will come forth as gold.

Psalm 34:19
New International Version (NIV)
19 The righteous person may have many troubles, but the Lord delivers him from them all;

Psalm 30:5b
New International Version (NIV)
5 …weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes in the morning.






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