from Rebekah Harvey

In this world of chaos and confusion it is important to remember what God has done for us. This is what we discussed in our Simple Truths Bible Study this week and it was encouraging. We know the importance of being informed about what is going on in our world but sometimes the constant stream of negativity in the news, on social media and even in conversations with others can be overwhelming. Yes we live in a world full of problems but we are not left helpless.

God has given us tools to use to help us strengthen ourselves and navigate the things we face. One of those tools is to guard our mind, Philippians 4:6-7 “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” and Proverbs 30:5 “Every word of God is pure; He is a shield to those who put their trust in Him.” We can trust God to protect us as our shield and guard.

The second tool we talked about is to know and remember the basics of faith. Soldiers are not sent out to the battlefield without first completing basic training. The same is true for us as Christians, we need to learn the basic truths of the Bible and become a disciple of the Lord Jesus. 2 Timothy 3:16 “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, 17 that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.”

Another important effect of remembering God’s goodness is that it helps us respond with hope rather than fear.
Jeremiah 29:11 says, “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.” and Isaiah 40:31 “But those who wait on the LORD shall renew their strength; They shall mount up with wings like eagles, They shall run and not be weary, They shall walk and not faint.” and 1 Peter 1:3 “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead”

You might want to write down the things that God has done in your life, so when the dark days of discouragement come you can remind yourself of how God has worked in the past and encourage yourself that He will take care of the present and the future. Also, another great point that was brought out is that people can argue with you over the Bible and what it says, but they cannot argue with your own personal experience with God. Take heart and remember His goodness and mercy for you!