Confidence

Life in the earthly realm is challenging. When considering his situation, John Schnieder commented about life, "there are things that happen in everyday life that are wonderful, not so wonderful, and that are heart-wrenching." This is true for all of us; some challenges are caused by our own decisions, some are not. Times like these on earth are inescapable. When these events or situations arrive, that's when our confidence in the Lord's salvation and our relationship with Him is tested! We must persevere! Peter said, "These trials will show that your faith is genuine. It is being tested as fire tests and purifies gold—though your faith is far more precious than mere gold. So when your faith remains strong through many trials, it will bring you much praise and glory and honor on the day when Jesus Christ is revealed to the whole world." - 1Pet. 1:7 (NLT). In these times, we must keep putting one step in front of the other trusting that the Holy Spirit will give us the strength for the next step. No matter how hard it is at the moment, don't give in to despair; let this struggle build confidence. God does not mind if we argue and complain to Him through the Holy Spirit, but never let go of His promise. The indwelling Holy Spirit is a seal of ownership and a guarantee Christ is coming back for us; don't quit! "Therefore, do not throw away your confidence, which has a great reward. For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God, you may receive what was promised." - Hebrews 10:35-36 (NASB)