Take A Stand

Immediately Jesus made His disciples get into the boat and go before Him to the other side, while He sent the multitudes away. And when He had sent the multitudes away, He went up on the mountain by Himself to pray. Now when evening came, He was alone there. But the boat was now in the middle of the sea, tossed by the waves, for the wind was contrary. Now in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went to them, walking on the sea. And when the disciples saw Him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, "It is a ghost!" And they cried out for fear. But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, "Be of good cheer! It is I; do not be afraid." (Matthew 14:22-27)

I can't deny that there have been many times I have been in desperate need. And every time the Lord came through for me. It has happened so often that now, as I have matured in Christ, I know beyond a doubt that God will intercede. Whether I was late on a bill or needed counseling to a dilemma, my answer was on its way.

On December 21, 2004 I submitted my life to Christ after many years of straying. It was then that all hell broke loose. One week later my precious Shani died in an instant with no previous health problems. Two more of my dogs were to follow in the next year and a half. Our financial status during that time plummeted. Tension in the house was unbearable. On that night that I submitted to Christ, I told Him that no matter what, I would trust Him and not 'go back' to the world for my answers. I was tested beyond measure and I have been faithful although there were times that my faith fell through but Christ always sent someone my way to  help me.

God does not ask that we understand everything. He commands us to stand strong and to believe that He knows what He's doing. Through life or death, through our wants and needs, through our tears and laughter, we are to stand. And after we've done all that we could to stand, stand therefore knowing that Jesus will intercede.

In Matthew 14:22-27, it was just before Jesus approached them that their greatest fears were faced. But Jesus was already on the way, and that is the message I offer you as God has told me to. In the midst of your worst fears, your greatest heartache, Jesus is already on the way. Without going into my personal situation, yesterday was a very difficult day for me. Although that horrible fear and worry kept pounding my mind, very quietly in my spirit, I could hear the Holy Spirit tell me to "Hush and be still.....have faith. Trust Him."  By the end of the day, the situation turned around so drastically that I could hardly stand the happiness. Our God has given us promises that He will stand by. Now it's our time to stand. Stand strong, because Jesus is on the way.

Copyright © October 27, 2006
Cheryl Taul

Not that we have dominion over your faith, but are fellow workers for your joy; for by faith you stand. (2 Corinthians 1:24)