Good morning, friends and readers of my devotionals! Thank you for reading. . Here’s today’s Food for Thought!

Last evening, our men’s bible study addressed the overarching subject of crisis: what should we do when faced with one? We all encounter crises, big or small, but they are crises nonetheless. Perhaps we could even consider naming these crises our times of trouble. The Psalmist David writes in the 59th Psalm:

16 But I will sing of your strength; 

 I will sing aloud of your steadfast love in the morning. 

    For you have been to me a fortress 

 and a refuge in the day of my distress. 

Life, in general, seems to have times of trouble lurking around every corner. Difficulties approach us from every angle and sometimes engulf us completely. They seem to never stop being just around the corner, and since that is a part of life, we really should not be surprised when they happen. We may not be able to stop them from happening because such is life, but we can control how we react to them when they occur.

Leadership books often share a common theme: “Wise leaders and their teams who prepare for lean times with thoughtful prayers and financial planning achieve success in both business and ministry." 

Granted, times of trouble can lead us down a path of despondency and worry if we are not rooted in the Word of God. It is the Word of God that serves as our anchor in the adversities we face. God’s Word reminds us that we can place our hope in heaven, not on earth. The many principles throughout Scripture teach us how to act and respond when we encounter the crises that will come.

Someone has rightly said that trust trumps trouble and that the Lord is large and in charge. Because of this, we can say along with Job: “Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked shall I return. The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord.”

So, when faced with your crisis today, above all, praise God for His provision and peace, and remind yourself that the trouble you may face is your ticket to trust in the Lord with all your heart, not leaning on your own understanding. Continue to acknowledge Him as He directs your steps.

Blessing on your faith journey,

Gene