We Should Always Seek God First!

The hills ahead look steep and high,
And often we behold them with a sigh;
But as we near them level grows the road,
We find on every slope, with every load,
The climb is not so steep, the top so far.
The hills ahead look harder than they are.
-Douglas Malloch

We know that life is full difficulties and sometimes it’s more of a disaster than a difficulty. Life’s difficulties call out for help: Work problems, financial problems, raising kids, aging, health problems, etc. We all need help along the road of life. We often find ourselves in difficult or desperate situations. Any time we experience difficulties, trials and troubles in life we should turn to the Lord. What should we do when we find ourselves in a distressing or desperate situation in life?

First, we cry out to God. Plain and simple. Some people don’t know where to turn for help, but we should! Certainly there are many substitutes in this world for God, things that take the place of God, but never satisfy the soul, or give the answer to life and death. Many people are procrastinators in life and especially, when it comes to getting serious about God, Christ, and eternity!

Where do you turn for help in life? And does it depend on what kind of help you need? When it’s a matter of life and death, where do you turn? (Psalm 46:1; Psalm 121:1-2; Matthew 6:33) If we remember Him, He will most certainly remember us. And we should always seek Him first in life, no matter what we’re facing.

Next, we look to scripture. By thinking about the former days, we are remembering the past and for us. This could well mean to remember what God did in the past for His people, and this is recorded in scripture. So, it may mean to look to the scriptures. And it’s always a smart thing to look to God’s Word for answers in life.(1 Corinthians 10:11-12; 2 Timothy 3:16-17; John 16:13; )

Scripture records how God’s people responded during difficult times, or how they failed to respond. These things are written down in the scriptures as warnings and also as encouragement. The Holy Spirit has guided into all the truth and that truth is recorded in the scriptures. We will never go wrong if we go by the scriptures (2 Timothy 2:15).

Finally, we offer praise. I definitely think we need to remember to praise God always, and especially during times of difficulty when it may be hard to do. It may be that God comes to dwell in us to a greater degree the more we praise Him in life (Psalm 22:3). If we look at Acts 16:16-34, and revisit what happened to Paul and Silas while imprisoned, you might think this: "Could it be that our prison cells, whatever they are, might be opened by an angel of God and we would be let free if we concentrated more on praise?"

In conclusion, today's hard times necessitate trusting God. It may be disastrous not to. Whatever happens, refuse to fear, don't panic, but first seek God's counsel. No matter what is going on, remember what Jesus said, “What is impossible with man is possible with God.” (Luke 18:27)

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 10:13; 2 Thessalonians 3:3; 2 Timothy 2:13; 1 Peter 5:7; Philippians 4:13; James 1:3-4

Prayer: Please, Lord, give me the strength that I need to face today. I don’t have to worry about tomorrow. If you just give me the strength that I need today that is all I need. Amen

May God bless you!

Heather