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Technorati"Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers. But his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night." Psalm 1:1-2
Living in Confidence
In Romans 8:31 we are encouraged by the Apostle Paul's words "if God is for us, then who can be against us?" Knowing that right will ultimately prevail enables me to get through the toughest of situations with my dignity and faith intact. Finding a verse or two that I can constantly bring to mind will help me be reminded that as Christians, we are over-comers. In fact, we have already won; God guarantees it. He will never leave our side even in our darkest hours and will walk along side, in front of us, and uplifting us through all of life's toughest trials. During these tough economic times our ability to provide for our family and the very livelihood of our business will be tested, and we need the power and strength of the Holy Spirit to stand stall in the face of adversity.
"The LORD is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid? When evil men advance against me to devour my flesh, when my enemies and my foes attack me, they will stumble and fall. Though an army besiege me, my heart will not fear; though war break out against me, even then will I be confident." Psalm 27:1-3
Being Still
There is perhaps no greater charge or larger challenge for the Believer than to be still in the face of adversity. For whether you own your own business or work for someone else, you will find yourself in situations which are not fair, where you have been falsely accused, or threatened. These threats may be real or veiled, emotional for physical, financial or impugn your very integrity. I have often found myself when attacked trying, in my own power, to find a way out, to explain what happened or to fix the situation myself. Frequently in so doing I have made a bad decision much worse than would have occurred if I had relied upon the Holy Spirit for guidance. As I have grown spiritually I have learned that my way is not the best way and that I do indeed serve a sovereign God. My God is large and in charge and will do as He pleases being sure that God will handle situations the way he desires. I have learned to take my problems to God acknowledging there is a big obstacle ahead and then to say in reverence, "you [God] have a big problem, what are you going to do about it, and do you need me?" Often all God wants us to do is to be still and to wait on his hand and divine guidance.
When Israelites were backed up against the Red Sea with the might of the Egyptian army, they were very afraid as their very lives were at risk. and it was at this time God spoke mightily to them.
"Moses answered the people, 'Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the LORD will bring you today. The Egyptians you see today you will never see again. The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still.'" Exodus 14:13-14
I know that this world is not easy, but I am encouraged that God tells us that we do not belong to it; that we belong to him. As I live my day in the working world and in my business I strive to keep at the forefront of my mind these Biblical truths which both strengthen me and give me hope to overcome all that challenges me. I know if I can stay true to the course God has set out for me and my life that indeed He will live through and with me. Go therefore into the workplace and be encouraged in the good news of Jesus Christ.
John Dillard is an author and Certified Public Accountant. His latest book is Seven Habits of Highly Effective Believers. Visit www.John-Dillard.com.
