I used to think that the closer you got to God, the easier life became. When in reality, life doesn’t get easier. The closer you get to God, the more distractions you experience. I like how 1 Peter 5:8-11 says it, “8 Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. 9 Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings. 10 And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast. 11 To him be the power for ever and ever. Amen.”

We all experience trials and hardships in life, but it’s important to remain firm and strong in the Lord. How do we do that? By praying and reading His Word! Sometimes that’s easier said than done. I find that just spending a few minutes in the morning praying and reading one verse helps. I ask God to speak to me and give me peace for that day. It helps give me hope that I can get through whatever situation I’m experiencing.

Sometimes even just listening to worship music can help lift my spirits. Just today on my way home from work this song called “Breathe,” came on:

Breathe, just breathe
Come and rest at my feet
And be, just be
Chaos calls but all you really need
Is to take it in, fill your lungs
The peace of God that overcomes
Just breathe (just breathe)
let your weary spirit rest
Lay down what’s good and find what’s best
Just breathe (just breathe)

I love this, “Breathe, just breathe, come and rest at my feet and be, just be.” I encourage you to take a moment out of your busy schedules, push the distractions aside, breathe and have a moment with God. I’m thankful for just one more day because I know I am not guaranteed tomorrow.  Today, I’m believing and praying for peace, clarity and wisdom in your situation. Amen and thank you for reading!

The post Keeping the Faith through Life’s Trials appeared first on Angela Van Winkle.

As I write this I think of just how intentional God is in everything He has set into motion in my life. From the people I meet to the experiences I have. Even when I question and doubt myself, I know that there’s this vision that’s bigger than I can even imagine. The closer I get to God and the more I align my thoughts with His, the more I see just how intentional He is.

It reminds me of how I recently started serving on the prayer team. I know I am meant to be on that team, but praying over someone is not something that comes naturally for me.  It has nothing to do with the person, but rather to do with my doubt. The first time I prayed over someone on the team my mind started running wild. It’s funny how in just a matter of seconds, I convinced myself, “I shouldn’t do this,” “I don’t say the right things,” “this person needs someone who is better at praying.” The negative thoughts ran rampart! It’s really crazy how powerful a mind can be!

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. – Isaiah 41:10

I recognized that my perspective needed to change and I started speaking words of encouragement to myself. I then began seeing this adversity as a sign that I am on the right path.

I am outside of my comfort zone, but I know that this is where God wants me. I also know I am being harder on myself than I should and this isn’t about me. I’ll admit I’m struggling, but I’m continuing to face my fears and live out my life in an uncomfortable place.

I encourage you to not let fear hold you back from that thing God is calling you to do. All it takes is that one step of faith, that one step in the direction He is calling you towards. I know life throws curveballs, but you got this. You can and you will persevere. I believe it and you should too!

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