Then He opened His mouth and taught them, saying: — Matthew 5:2

Probably one of the most common phrases used to someone going through a tough time is “Don’t worry, everything will be ok” or the heartless phrase “Get over it already.” It’s like our default cliché whenever we don’t know what to say. It’s also one of the most ineffective ways to comfort someone.

So, how do we prepare ourselves for the inevitable times of sorrow or disappointment? Is there a way to prevent our souls from becoming downcast? In preparation for the long journey of ministry Jesus is about to encounter, He takes the time to build into His disciples the ability to see the trials they will encounter as a preamble of the benefits of enduring such unappealing circumstances. He is giving them the foresight of how to respond instead of react. He wants them to know that the benefit of having the right attitude is beneficial and rewarding.

Our journey with the Lord is filled with experiences that can be enlightening if we are prepared to accept them. When we are willing to meet the word of God head on, we can expect to be challenged in our walk. The attitude we possess will determine the outcome. Jesus sits His followers down and speaks to them things that probably caused more conflict than understanding. How can anyone consider themselves “Blessed” by the list of verbs and adjectives that are either unpleasant or contrary to our normal reaction?

If I am willing to apply the scriptures to my heart and not my intellect, then I can understand the circumstance as a trial that will build into my character the traits that are a part of the nature of God, to be conformed into His image. Over and over I am confronted with the idea of the battle between flesh and spirit, I’m to be aware of the nature of sin and my default of being prone to wander. If I’m not careful I will misinterpret the trails I face and allow them to cause bitterness and depression. I need to know my true identity is driven by the Spirit of God that lives inside of me and allow Him to direct my path.

How can a young man cleanse his way?

​​By taking heed according to Your word.

​​With my whole heart I have sought You;

​​Oh, let me not wander from Your commandments!

​​Your word I have hidden in my heart,

​​That I might not sin against You.

Let us be reminded today that we will face uncertainty, but the grace of God will carry us through to the heart of God that will make sense of it all. So, in the words of someone who doesn’t know what to say, “Don’t worry, everything will be ok.” Amen!

Written by Rob Russomano: Rob Russomano is married to Terri, and serves with her as full time staff members. He is a graduate of the Colony of Mercy and is also available as a speaker of the grace of God with a message of Hope for church events. You can contact him at rrussomano@americaskeswick.org.

The Daily Bible Reading: Psalm 17, 35, 54, 63|You can download our 2017 Daily Bible Reading Plan by clicking here

Think About This: The plans of God are only revealed in the presence of God. — Mark Batterson

This Week’s Verse to Memorize:

And take not the word of truth utterly out of my mouth, For I have hoped in Your ordinances. Psalm 119:43