Live Love LeadSample

“Part 2: A Difficult Path - Navigating Storms” There are times when the path of life is difficult. We must learn how to navigate the ‘storms’ that come, the process of pain and its role in our progress along the path. I have had to learn to navigate some very forceful storms in my life. It’s probably safe to assume that you have had storms to face as well. We can take great strength and wisdom by looking at how Jesus handled himself in the midst of suffering. Jesus had the option to take the easy way out and yet he didn’t. That’s worth meditating upon. As a man, Jesus wrestled with what was ahead, which is evident in Matthew 16 when he explained to his disciples the difficult path that awaited him. His response to Peter’s objections reveals something of the intensity he had to engage to continue on and to the cross. Jesus humiliation, death and victory over death, paved a way for us, enabling us to endure and overcome the trials that we encounter on life’s difficult path. In John 16:33 Jesus said, I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have [perfect] peace and confidence. In the world you have tribulation and trials and distress and frustration; but be of good cheer [take courage; be confident, certain, undaunted]! For I have overcome the world. [I have deprived it of power to harm you and have conquered it for you.] (Amplified Bible) Unfortunately, everyone faces storms in life. But with God, there is always hope and he does not waste anything when it comes to finding ways to benefit us. Life is a difficult path, but the path keeps going forward. When you face a season filled with pain and heartache, remember to keep moving forward. In order to do so, there will be times when you have to lighten your load so you don’t become ‘stuck’. When you release the baggage of your past, you learn to walk in authenticity and freedom from fear. In a nutshell, the keys to navigating the storms in your life are: - Keep making right choices - Believe in God’s love for you - Understand that some things take time – it’s a process - Surround yourself with positive support - Stay in God’s Word. What storms are you currently facing? Are you able to look at them with different ‘eyes’ today? Commit each one of them to Christ afresh this morning, and believe in your heart that He will not only give you wisdom to walk through them, but sustain you as you do. Prayer: Father, I commit to go the distance with You. I ask for Your grace to carry, empower and sustain me. Where there is life, there is hope and today, my hope is in Jesus.