Challenges are real! (24/3/2023)
By Pastor Dr. Aggrey Soyekwo
Psalm 42:5 "Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God."
The psalms are characterized by writings that express fears, excitement, discouragement or contentment in the authors hearts. They pour them out as prayers, worship, praise, criticism, musings or even complains. They reflect what we all go through at different stages in life. One time we are up in victory and excitement. Another time things seem to fall apart and we are gripped with fear and uncertainty, and God seems far away. This creates alot of mental stress.
Challenges and battles of life are real; in our relationships with others, or struggles within ourselves. Even when you are at peace, others can cause you trouble. Some of these are easy to get over. But others break our hearts, take away peace and stress us deeply with no immediate answers. Our souls may get troubled and downcast. The psalmist encouraged his soul as we too should, to still trust in God.
To troubled and worried disciples, Jesus’ encouragement was to trust in God and Him. Jesus anticipated much trouble in this world for us, but promised victory (Jn 16:33). The first approach to relieve from stress in life is to know that troublesome challenges will always be there. Rather than allow it take your peace and drive you into depression and unclear lifestyles as a solution, learn to hope in God. He already made provision for such stresses.
John 14:1 “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God ; believe also in me." 1 Peter 5:7 "Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you."
Shalom children of God.