THE WORD FOR TODAY SATURDAY 25 MAY, 2019. KEEP TRUSTING GOD

“He who has begun a good work in you will complete it.” Philippians 1:6 NKJV

WHEN MARK Matousek told people that a potentially fatal disease had saved his life, they didn’t understand. He wasn’t glad he got sick. But without it, he’d never have discovered and tapped into the strength to confront and overcome some of his core fears. He writes: “Hardship can be the blood in muscles that pushes us forward. Crisis takes us to the brink and forces us to keep moving. When people call it a blessing, they’re describing a paradox. It’s why men often blossom in wartime and women are changed by childbirth—they come alive as never before.” The truth is, God is committed to your spiritual growth: “He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Christ.” And along the way you’ll be tested, sometimes to your limits. One author writes: “Spiritual tests try our faith and commitment. Remember Abraham and Isaac? Nothing makes us prouder than seeing our children succeed, and God had great plans for Isaac. What could possibly go wrong? A lot! We’ve stood in Abraham’s sandals and clung to God’s promises, yet sickness lingers, financial troubles invade, friends betray us, and death calls. Abraham responded with trust and commitment. It wasn’t easy for him…we know the outcome; he didn’t. Yet he was prepared to take his son’s life. God never wanted Isaac’s death…He wants our whole and committed hearts. When trials don’t make sense…He promises to set limits…to walk with us and bring forth good.”