The world around us is utterly broken. God’s good and beautiful creation has been subjected to the curse, and because of this we see brokenness in all spheres and in all contexts. It is only an assured hope in God as the impartial judge that provides us with a confidence in His deliverance for His own.
Observations:
- No matter what you are going through, God is more powerful
- The wrath of God is seen in the wake of His deliverance
- Confidence is found by remembering what God has done
- Joy is found in the promise of God your Savior
Conclusions:
- The believer can rejoice no matter the circumstances by connecting God’s past redemption to His future deliverance
Application: What do you do when you’re facing the storm?
- Wait
- Prayer
- Make a list of what God has already done
- Move forward fearlessly with joy
Psalm 118:6-7
“The Lord is on my side; I will not fear. What can man do to me? The Lord is on my side as my helper; I shall look in triumph on those who hate me.”
Philippians 1:18c-21
“Yes, and I will rejoice, for I know that through your prayers and the help of the Spirit of Jesus Christ this will turn out for my deliverance, as it is my eager expectation and hope that I will not be at all ashamed, but that with full courage now as always Christ will be honored in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.”
Philippians 1:6
“And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.”
Romans 12:19
“Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord.”
Psalm 27:14
“Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord.”
Luke 22:39-42
“Jesus went out as usual to the Mount of Olives, and his disciples followed him. On reaching the place, he said to them, “Pray that you will not fall into temptation.” He withdrew about a stone’s throw beyond them, knelt down and prayed, “Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.”