I fondly remember the days of hard, wooden church pews which allowed no relaxation, wood plank flooring that signaled your arrival and departure with squeaking, and relieving the heat of a summer service with a paper fan provided by the local funeral home. We sang our favorite hymns out of the Broadman Hymnal but never looked at the words, for we knew the cherished verses word for word. If by chance the song leader would make it a “request only” service, you knew exactly which songs would be chosen: When the Roll is Called Up Yonder, Amazing Grace, Haven of Rest, and Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus. It has been, what seems, a lifetime ago since I sat in that little, country church. A much larger, modern brick building has since replaced it, but those nostalgic memories are safely veiled for me to freely treasure.
Life’s path may have taken many turns; some may have led to enchantment - others to dark and dismal dungeons. Yet, God will never leave nor forsake us. Many times, we may doubt His faithfulness, but He remains faithful. Often, we may fail Him, though His mercy never fails. Through the Lord’s constant reliability, we learn to trust Him. Romans 5:3(KJV) Furthermore, because we have suffered, and witnessed God turn trials into glorious blessings, we can be an encouragement to another who is suffering. 2 Corinthians 1:4(KJV)
So, when persecution comes, and it is a certainty, use the wisdom of Proverbs 3:5(KJV) - Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. It may seem that God is a million miles away and unreachable, but He is unchanging. We must realize we know that we know God is able. Tis so sweet to trust in Jesus; Just to take Him at His Word; Just to rest upon His promise; And to know, “Thus saith the Lord.”
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