Chapter 9 Discussion
Post date: Nov 3, 2011 4:32:27 PM
In the storms of your life, are you hoping for God’s mercy?
Psalm 33:18-19 says:
“Behold, the eye of the LORD is upon them that fear him, upon them that hope in his mercy; to deliver their soul from death and to keep them alive in famine.”
Are you seeking God as a treasure hunter seeks the greatest treasure? If you are, you’ll find Him.
Many seek comfort. Many seek favors. Many believe that if they decide to become a Christian they will find these. Those who come to Christ seeking comfort will find it.
However, many who think God can be manipulated to provide for their wants will be disappointed. These, like the wheat that sprang forth without root, will wither and die.
What do you fear more? The loss of your comforts? The loss of man’s praise? Or God?
“Behold, the eye of the LORD is upon them that fear him,upon them that hope in His mercy;”
If you claim to be a Christian, are you placing your hope in His mercy? To do that you first have to acknowledge that you need His mercy. Do you? Do you understand your spiritual state?
A trial comes your way. You think, "God, Why are you doing this?"
You do not receive an answer.
Do you give up on Him? Or do you put your hope on His mercy and acknowledge that He promises to keep you alive, even in famine, for example. That doesn’t mean that He keeps you from being touched by it.
“Our soul waiteth for the LORD: he is our help and our shield.” Psalm 33:20
How we approach our troubles reflects our trust in the Lord. It reflects our faith. When we are faced with disaster and yet we praise God and seek His provision, seeking for His hand in the storm, we will find it.
We can wait for Him. He will help us…are you willing to trust Him?
“For our heart shall rejoice in Him, because we have trusted in His holy name.” Psalm 33:21
How do you rejoice in trials?
Pass the trials to Him. Tell God about it.
Ask Him to supply His comfort through the Comforter.
Remember the eternal salvation He brought you through faith in the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Remember His great mercies. We see His mercy when we acknowledge we don't get what we deserved.
Recall His many promises He's given us in Scripture and meditate on them.
Sing to Him. Sing songs of praise. Sing songs that focus on what He has done for you, not what you do for Him or on how hard life is.
Rehearse to others every little blessing God has given you, from the food you've received to the miracles He's performed.
“Let thy mercy, O LORD, be upon us, according as we hope in thee.” Psalm 33:22