CELEBRATE WHEN IT MAKES NO SENSE

11/17/2023

"...we saw the Nephilim (the sons of Anak are part of the Nephilim), and we were like grasshoppers in our own sight, and so we were in their sight" (Numbers 13:33).

Your perception of yourself determines whether you live as a victor or a victim. From God's perspective, a believer has no reason to suffer defeat. However, many believers go through hardship because they align with a different perspective other than the Lord's.

James 1:2 in the Berean Study Bible advises, "Consider it pure joy, my brothers, when you encounter trials of many kinds." This implies that each time you face a challenge—something that occurs daily for many—it's an opportunity for celebration. Rather than dwelling on disappointments or unmet expectations, embrace the chance to celebrate and find joy in the midst of difficulties. 

Perhaps your boss terminated you unjustly; find joy. Or maybe your spouse or children are causing unwarranted drama—embrace celebration. Believers, God calls for responses to life's challenges that defy conventional understanding. Rather than mourning the recent departure of a fellow saint, cultivate an attitude of gratitude. Instead of shedding tears over a severed relationship, channel your excitement toward God.

Let 1 Corinthians 15:58 be your mantra for the day. It says, "Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord." In this season, remain unswayed in your commitment to the Lord's work. Stay resolute in prayer, fasting, attending meetings, and evangelizing. Guard your mental fortitude to perceive yourself exactly as God sees you—a royal heir. Recognize that nothing can prevail against you successfully.

The adversary may attempt to use deceptive signs to instill fear and prompt you to utter the wrong words. Resist this pressure, my friend. Safeguard your emotions and your speech; speak only in alignment with God's truth.

Have an excellent day!

Faith-Filled Confession

I refuse to be intimidated by the lies of the enemy. I am a victor and not a victim. Therefore, in the name of Jesus, the noise of the enemy is silenced because I live far above the systems of deception, fear, and lack. Hallelujah! 

Prayer Points:

Psalm 122:6, "Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: "May they prosper who love you."

• Pray for the peace of Jerusalem. 

• Pray against plans to use the crises in Israel to launch other attacks in the United States.

• Pray for Washington and all who are in positions of authority in the United States.

ONE-YEAR READING PLAN: Ezekiel 7-9; Hebrews 10:24-39