DIFFICULT TIMES

 

By: Rev. Erick M. Fajardo
Baptist Church of the Firstborn, Mandaluyong City
(Ps. 27: 1-6)

 

WE LIVE in difficult times today. We are in CRISIS! 300,000 Filipinos in US lost their jobs. Because of this, many fear of their future. There is insecurity. Companies go bankrupt and close their businesses. As a result, thousands are jobless. We have to be reminded that God is eternal and the principles of His Word is eternal. They don’t change, even in a changing society. Let us learn 7 principles from King David:

1. Our relationship with God (v. 1) This is foundational. We must have a strong foundation to stay standing firmly (a) against the status of life; (b) we have no clear knowledge about tomorrow and (c) none of us know about the future, but the Lord.

2. Assurance of salvation is vital during difficult times. David knew he was saved (v. 1); He might not know about tomorrow, but he knew who held his hand.

3. Our relationship with God must be a reality. Either we really have a personal relationship with God or we don’t have. One of the reasons why people have trouble handling the difficulties of life is that they lack the assurance of a personal relationship with God. Paul said in II Tim. 1: 12.

4. Our confidence in God (vv 2-3) Where do we really put our confidence? Of course not in our job and/ or business, not in other men (v. 10), not in circumstances and most of all, not in ourselves nor in money but in God!!! (Ps. 112: 7-8) (Ps. 118:8; Proverbs 3: 5, 6), (Ps. 27: 13, 14)

5. Our worship of God. (vv 4-6) Worship here refers to making it a part of our lives. We need to realize that worship is not just something that is done on a one day of the week basis. It has to be a part of our lives. Worship is David’s first
priority - to dwell in the presence of God; to be where God is, to dwell in God is - to dwell in God’s house (Eph. 2: 19-22)

6. Take note when you are really worshipping God (v. 5) Set me upon the Rock. In times of trouble, I don’t want to be confused looking right at myself because worship is part of my life. Therefore, God is there immediately as the center of my attention. He is near and I easily call out for Him. It is easy to trust God because worship is my first priority.
When difficulties begin to pull me down to sink deep into the mine of fear and anxieties, there is a Rock where God will set my feet. (Ps. 40: 2)

7. Victory & Rejoicing (v. 6)
Offering or giving is necessary. It should be considered a sacrifice of joy. We should also sing praises with thanksgiving and proclaim it to others.
There is no promise that we will have no difficulties, but we can rest upon these principles and God will help us through difficult times.