The Lord who is a refuge in times of trouble
Nahum 1:1~7 The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in him. (7) Hymn for scheduled worship: Korean/English Hymnal #407 Dying with Jesus (#465 in previous version) There are people who do not have assurance that they have received salvation even if they go to church and others who simply attend church out of habit. These people complain and get discouraged when they face crises. However, if they enjoy the Gospel correctly through a life of faith, they can see the plan that God has prepared and communicate with God through prayer. What kind of life of faith am I living now? How can we overcome a crisis in life?
1. The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble (Nahum 1:7)
If you complain and resent God before a problem, you cannot find the answer that is hidden behind the problem. God protects His children from troubles and hardship. He gives them the most important answer before a problem and is with them through the Holy Spirit. He is in control of every minute and second of His children’s lives and guides them. You must believe in this fact and rely on God’s power. God has promised us that He will bless and pour grace upon those who find refuge in Him before hardship.
2. God has destroyed the forces of darkness
Even though suffering and adversity come in life, you will not be shaken if you know the background of those problems. You just need to know that the reason for the problem is not in people or your environment but in the forces of darkness and believe in the power of Jesus Christ that has broken down the authority of Satan. The world may seem powerful and tall, but it is God who has destroyed Satan who has authority over the world. God is with His children by the Holy Spirit, and He protects and guides His children.
3. He has called us as ones who bring good news (Nahum 1:15)
God has called His children as those who share the good news, the Gospel. He will proclaim peace through our feet, and this is the commission of those who have the Gospel. If you have realized that God has broken the authority of Satan and raised His children to the seat of success, then you only need to go forth you’re your commission. God has raised His children as witnesses.
-Do you have a problem or trouble that you cannot solve no matter how much you try? Pray about what answer God wants to fulfill for you through that problem, and meditate on the commission you have been given. Immanuel Church Sunday Worship 1st Service / 2012.6.3