"The Truth Is Out There..."

Many times opposition, trials, setbacks, and problems come at us. We may miss a unique opportunity because we just want the situation over. However, trouble is an opportunity for faith.

In John 16 Jesus was having a locker room huddle with His disciples. He was warning them of tough times ahead. In verse 33 Jesus says, "I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.”

Jesus didn't tell them and doesn't tell us about bad things to scare us but to prepare us. He actually has written the ultimate eternal equation for us. Trouble will come BUT I've already overcome it! He's inserted Himself as the solution before any variables were written. Jesus has defeated anything and everything that can be thrown at us. Our responsibility is to trust that Jesus told us the truth. Have faith in Him that we will come out on the other side.

In our hurry to just get difficulties over with, we create U. F. O. 's or unidentified faith opportunities. We miss seeing the bigger picture. We miss altar opportunities.

In the old testament they often erected an altar of remembrance or named a place to mark a significant encounter or event. After Jacob wrestled with God in Genesis 32, he stopped to name the place. He called it "Peniel" or "It is because I saw God face to face, and yet my life was spared. " Jacob stopped to acknowledge his struggle and give credit to God. There is something humbling and healing about reflection and acknowledgement.

Don't miss out on the altars of remembrance faith in God provides. We're not meant to just push all uncomfortable things out of sight out of mind. They are spiritual growth opportunities. They are maturity catalysts. They are testimonies for others to what faith in God can do.

Jesus has already assured us He's been victorious over our troubles. Stand in faith while you wait for the victory to become tangible. Don't end up with a lifetime of U. F. O's. Let your faith become markers and altars of remembrance for others to be encouraged.