Present Help!

In the Psalms we read the encouraging statement…
“God is our refuge and strength, a VERY PRESENT HELP IN TROUBLE.” ( Psalm 46:1 ESV)

Throughout the Scriptures we see God GETTING people out of trouble. However, not only is God a “present help in trouble”, but also a great help in KEEPING us out of trouble. Remember, both Jonah ( Jonah 1) and Paul ( Acts 27) found themselves in storms of which God safely delivered them, but we should also bear in mind it was different circumstances that got them there. Paul was being taken as a prisoner to Rome to stand trial and offered advice that could have spared the physical losses that were suffered. (note Acts 27:21-26) Jonah on the other hand could have avoided his trouble had he been obedient to God in the first place and he did acknowledge being the reason for the storm. ( Jonah 1:12)

Though we may rightfully praise God for His ability and willingness to deliver us from even the messes our own choices get us into, shouldn’t we prefer to KEEP FROM THEM if at all possible? Is God viewed merely as our panic button in times of trouble or is He kept in view as the GUIDE FOR OUR LIFE so that we can be spared some of the unnecessary shipwrecks life’s voyage may otherwise bring. Many, through following their own ways, have “shipwrecked their faith” ( 1 Timothy 1:19) and their life.

We will not be spared all of life’s challenges. However, by PRESENTLY FOCUSING on the GUIDANCE GOD OFFERS there are many “storms” and situations of running our life aground that we will avoid. Let us accept God’s help “before” trouble so that our voyage may be kept safely on course.

Have a great day OF SMOOTHER SAILING!
Carl

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