WHAT IS WORSHIP

 

     We live in challenging times.  Currently the inflation rate in Canada is over seven percent with food, shelter, clothing, and transportation the main drivers of this inflation.  Only recently have we seen a small relief from gas prices.  In our grocery stores we are dealing with shrinkflation which is getting smaller quantities for the same amount of money.  In some parts of the country housing is almost becoming unaffordable.  All of this is causing physical, mental and emotion stress.  Is there any hope?  Of course, there is but it is not found in education, government, social reform, or environmental action.  It is found in the Lord.

     When I gave my life to Jesus Christ back in 1974, I committed my time talents and resources to the Lord.  I have lived through the runaway inflation of the seventies, high interest rates of the eighties, the recessions of the nineties and early twenty first century.  Not once in that time did, I ever lack in anything.  I was able to buy homes, cars, clothe my four children and not once did I miss a mortgage payment or utility bill.  In my case the Lord was Jehovah Jireh my provider. 

     I have had a lifetime experience of the Lord’s care and keeping.  In these uncertain times I have encouraging you to put your trust in the Lord.  I am always reminded of Prov 3:5-6, “Trust the Lord with all your heart, do not lean to your own understanding but in all ways acknowledge the Lord and He will direct your path.”  I have found this wonderful promise to absolutely truth and trustworthy. 

     Recently there was a survey that asked Albertans how they felt about the future over half with uncertain and even afraid.   I love this verse from Isaiah 41:10 which states, “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.”  God promises that He will be in your corner.  Jesus stated in Matthew 29:20, that He would never leave or forsake us.  It is so comforting to know God is helping and working on your behalf.

     I have discovered over the years that as stated in Psalm 37:23, “That the steps of a good person is ordered by the Lord.”  When we commit our steps to the Lord, he will always not only be with us but go before us to prepare the way.  I remember when I was living in Hay River, I was driving my new Jeep on a gravel road near the Dene Village.  A van went by a threw a large rock into the path of my windshield is smash the windshield and caused a lot of damage.  When I got back to Hay River I went to a local glass shop and asked how much to install a new windshield.  He gave me the price, told me he had to order it in and that it would be in town in a couple days.  I told him to order it and then driving back home wondered how I was going to pay for this.  Now get this, by the end of the day the Lord provided every penny of the price miraculously.  I told no one the need but through two unexpected sources God provided the need.  This is just one of a lifetime of similar types of provision. 

     What I am saying is that if you put you hand in the hand of the man who still the water, like the song says you will find Him faithful.  I have a lifetime of experience in this area.  I have found God to be faithful and you will as well.  When you do your life will not be ruled by fear but by faith.  I leave you with one final thought from the Apostle Paul.  It is found in Phil 4:19. Paul states, “My God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory.”  God has provision for you waiting to be released to you.  All you must do is ask.   James 4:2, says you have not because you ask not.  Why not ask and you will be surprised what the Lord will do.