You were filled with hopes and dreams. Maybe it was for a great career, a perfect marriage, and/or good health. Now all you've got are problems! What happened? Your head is full of questions. Aren't Christians supposed to be living in the abundant life of God in every aspect of their lives? Didn't God promise to ask, and you shall receive? You have been doing all the asking. So why are you receiving calamity instead of blessings?

Yes, the Lord promises that whatever you ask in His Name, believing, you shall receive. But, He also says that in the world you shall have tribulation (John 17: 33) and in His prayer for you on the night that He was betrayed, he asked the Father not to take you out of this world and its problems, but to keep you safe in the midst of it! (John 17: 15)

God wants you above all else to have peace. Jesus died so that you may have peace. He suffered bitter sorrow, pain, and humility without complaining in order that you may have that life of abundance and peace. (Isa. 53: 5-6) He is your High Priest; not someone who stands afar off, but one who Himself has suffered! Because He was tempted as a man in this world where Satan rules, He understands and helps you in your trials! (Heb. 3: 16-18)

How do you feel at peace in the midst of the turmoil in your life? God wants you to come close to Him, believe His Word, and acknowledge what He has done for you. By humbly submitting to Him and resisting the devil, the latter will flee from you! The more time you spend with God, the more intimate He will become with you. In fact, when you humble yourself before Him, He lifts you up! (Jas. 4: 7, 8, 10)

"He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty." He is your refuge, your fortress, and will keep you safe from all evil! Why? Because as you show Him your love, He will not only deliver you but set you high above your troubles. He promises that whenever you call on Him, He will not only be with you in your trouble and deliver you from of it, but honor you! (read and meditate on every verse of Psalm 91)

As a child of the Most High, you have His Power working in you through faith! He is able to do and give so very much more than you could possibly ask for or think, through the resurrection Power of Christ working in you! Praise Him! (Eph. 3: 17-21)

God has put His words in your mouth, and covers you in the shadow of His hand (Isa. 51: 16) Speak, therefore, His Promises over your situation in confidence without fear or worry! When you pray, thank Him, fully expecting that He has heard you and the answer is already accomplished!

It is of utmost importance to keep your thoughts focused on good things rather than on the negative as you wait patiently for the blessings. His Peace, which is far beyond human understanding, will cover your heart and mind, and "God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus." (Phil. 4: 6-8; 19)



Ann Stewart is author of With Wings As Eagles, an inspiring story of unwavering faith in God's Word and answered prayer: http://www.lifealteringwords.com/with-wings-as-eagles
Looking for affirmation, encouragement and inspiration? The welcome door is wide open at Embracing All the Promises of God: http://www.lifealteringwords.com