FROM THE KEYBOARD

The greatest victories of faith often come from the hardest battles. Why? Because faith grows stronger when it's stretched by trials; and the refining fire of trials doesn’t burn us, it purifies us. “Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him” (James 1:12).

Faith is the antidote to fear. When we trust God completely, fear loses its grip on our lives. Thus, walk boldly today in the Lord, knowing He goes before you and behind you. "For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind" (2 Timothy 1:7).

Unlike man’s schemes that can be premeditated to manipulate, God’s plans are premeditated to orchestrate for our good and His glory. Trust His timing, and know He is always working behind the scenes for your ultimate victory and His glory. "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" (Jeremiah 29:11).

Don’t mistake talking about God for talking to God. He desires more than casual conversation—He longs for intimate connection. Knowing of Him is not the same as truly knowing Him. Seek Him today with your whole heart. “The Lord is near to all who call upon Him, to all who call upon Him in truth” (Psalm 145:18).

Faith isn’t cheap. It calls us to sacrifice and obedience--trusting God when it costs us something. And that is why true faith counts the cost and makes the cost count—because a faith that costs nothing and demands nothing is worth nothing. "But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him" (Hebrews 11:6).

The Christian life is a battleground, not a playground. And a divided heart is easily defeated, but a heart singularly set on Christ stands firm through any storm. Thus, let us commit to staying faithful—knowing our unseen battles prepare us for greater grounds to be taken. "You therefore must endure hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ" (2 Timothy 2:3).