Every now and then I pause and thank God for His sovereignty in my life. I am not a perfect man, father, husband, or pastor. But, I thank God that through it all He has chosen to keep me alive.
According to The Bible, the great Psalmist and warrior David practiced the same in his day. He was surrounded by enemies, he transgressed against The Lord, he experienced many spouts of trouble and sickness, but David recognized God was sustaining him and keeping him alive.
Psalm 138:7 Though I walk in the midst of trouble, You will revive me; You will stretch out Your hand against the wrath of my enemies, And Your right hand will save me.
When the cares of life are over overwhelming, when personal slip ups and troubles are taxing on the mind and body, stop and acknowledge that regardless of the distress The Lord is keep you alive.
It is easy to start complaining, becoming negative, and bitter. When we feel like this we need to be revived. Sometimes I have to ask the Lord, “Lord strengthen, renew, and help me!” Thankfully, His ears are open to the cries of the righteous. Psalm 34:15 The eyes of the LORD are on the righteous, And His ears are open to their cry.
The journey of life comes with violent storms and unavoidable challenges. But we must maintain a Christ-Like mind before, during, and after the turmoil we face. Philippians 2:5 Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus. Instead of looking at all of what is going wrong, learn from your choices, and thank God for choosing to keep you alive.
Over 25 years of pastoring youth and young adults under the leadership of Bishop Barry Walker in Carrollton, GA. By the grace of God, Pastor Baker shepherds young people weekly, host podcasts, writes blogs, has authored 4 books, and makes music. Pastor Baker has been happily married for over 27 years and fathers two sons.