Godly Perspective for Hard Times

* The Lord controls the timing and intensity of my trial.

* He has a specific purpose for allowing it. 

* It may yield something in me that I presently lack. 

* If I trust God with a joyful attitude, I'll benefit from adversity.

* Christ wants to demonstrate His ability to sustain me under great pressure.

* He walks with me every step of the way.

* Through the power of the Spirit, I'll come out of this trial victorious

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excerpt from Intouch magazine, January 2011 issue "Wisdom for the trials of Life"

Four Requirements for a Renewed Mind

1. Fill your mind with Scripture - focusing on the Lord's character, ways, and commands.

2. Resist temtptation and flee from it by understanding the thougths and feelings that trigger a sinful response in you.

3. Check the source of your thoughts - are they from God, your flesh, the world, or Satan?

4. Rey on the Holy Spirit to empower you to resist sin and break free from its bondage.

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excerpt from Intouch magazine August 2011 issue 'The Necessity of a Renewed Mind'

Psalm 1:1-3

"How blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked, nor stand in the path of sinners, nor sit in the seat of scoffers! But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and in His law he meditates day and night. He will be like a tree firmly planted by streams of water, which yields its fruits in its season and it's leaf does not wither; And in whatever he does, he prospers."

 

Verse 1

• Do I take advice from those whose ways are contrary to Yours?

• Am I missing some of your blessings because of my choice of friends?

Verse 2

• Lord, what is my chief source of enjoyment?

• How can I begin to enjoy You more?

• What do you  mean by meditates day and night? How can I do that?

Verse 3

• How can I become like a fruitful tree? What kind of fruit do You want me to yield?

• What does it mean to prosper? What blessings await those who honor You?

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Excerpt from InTouch Magazine June 2011 Issue "Transformed by the Word"