What I must do amidst problems and hardships
♬ Hymn for scheduled worship: Korean/English Hymnal #348 All the Way My Savior Leads Me (#434 in previous version)
When Jesus began his public ministry, he stated to those facing hardships and disease, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest,” (Matthew 4:19). Also, Paul and the Early Church discovered those oppressed by hardships and delivered the Gospel to them. Therefore, how must we support the people who are in the midst of hardships?
1. Three hardships
Most individuals are facing three major problems as their hardships. First, it is the miniscule or tremendous anguish concerning people or work. Since anguish causes unbelief, as a result, greater anguish arises. Second, numerous people possess a troubled body and heart. Due to such discomforts, they seek excuses and their complaints begin to grow. If these issues worsen, depression and mental problems come. Third, a great number of people are powerless. If one is weak, all tasks result in failure.
2. Biblical method
In Philippians 4:4, Paul commanded, “Be joyful inside the Lord.” This is exactly what prayer is. When you can taste peace and happiness inside prayer, healing inevitably takes place. In Philippians 4:5, it states, “Let your gentleness be evident to all.” Displaying gentleness to others will not only save them, but you as well. Philippians 4:6~7 states, “Do not be anxious about anything, but present your requests to God.” This is the fundamental grounds to prayer and healing. It is an imperative answer that can heal those who are spiritually afflicted and are powerless. At that moment, God will guard our hearts and thoughts.
3. Life of healing
Upon holding to the Word and gaining true peace inside prayer, when hardships arise we must be able to give thanksgiving as we discard our troubles. From this point on, the Word is fulfilled daily, answers to prayers will come, and we will be able to experience doors of evangelism opening. Hence, answers to our lives appear, and through these answers the world is reformed. In addition, we can discover our talents, and the works inside our business, finances, and academics begin. Therefore, do not be anxious by anything, but give sincere prayer within thanksgiving to God.
-How many people around me are amidst hardships? Record the names of people you wish to evangelize to inside today’s Word, prayer, and evangelism. Also, deliver the Gospel to them in the most accurate manner.
New Believer’s Retreat Lecture 3 / 2010.4.13