Oh No! Not Another Trial

Here is an honest complaint I shared with the Lord.

“Why are You allowing so many trials, conflicts, and continual spiritual warfare, while I am trying so desperately to serve You?”

I anticipated challenges to my faith while following God’s plan and purpose. I quickly became aware of the devil lurking in the background of God’s plan for me, but this seemed way over the top. At times I felt like I was facing life and death struggles.

For me, Paul’s words sum up why I was going through trial after trial.

“…For we were so utterly burdened beyond our strength that we despaired of life itself. [9] Indeed, we felt that we had received the sentence of death. But that was to make us rely not on ourselves but on God who raises the dead.” 2 Corinthians 1:8-9 ESV

There were far too many times when I was attempting to fulfill God’s plan in my own strength. I was utilizing my own personal skills and resources. I was trying to rely on what I could produce, rather than what God could do. These pursuits brought real pain and suffering into my life. I believe the trials I experienced were introduced to me to disrupt my self-reliance and press me to rely on God and not on myself.

The real question I must keep asking is, “Am I trusting and relying on God, or am I relying on me?”

~ Pastor Mike

Sometimes I feel like I'm pressed into impossible situations and it scares the hell out of me.