It’s been a week in which friends I know have experienced major setbacks. Just normal life tribulations but major setbacks for their health, family or work.

Last Sunday I spoke about the fact that “trouble must come” and shared my personal response to these confusing, often shattering experiences. This week I have really been tested on the convictions I’ve gleaned from the bible and practiced in life.

I’m pleased to report that these three principles have stood firm in this weeks storms.

They are: as a Christian;
•Determine to keep your focus on Jesus – I do this by reading and remembering what be said and did, especially in trouble. I remember and choose not to forget Jesus promise and example.

•Share your experiences and troubles with reliable people who will pray with you and for you consistently. Don’t leave people and situations to chance, prayer pushes people and situations into the path of Gods blessing.

•Relinquish the desperation to control to Jesus – there is a mysterious truth; having given our concerns to Jesus, we must leave them there, if we are to know his transformation in our lives and the lives of our families and circumstances.

These things are simple but hard to do. They are what faith is about and they have brought me closer to God. Talk about it and try it, you may well be surprised what happens to you.