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Charles Stanley

Charles Stanley – God’s Condition for Blessing

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Charles Stanley

Romans 12:1-2

If people were really honest, many would say their Christianity barely resembles the faith experience God has promised. They struggle repeatedly with the same sins, complain that God rarely answers prayers, and wonder why He hasn’t given them the desires of their heart. However, most believers never stop to ask, Why doesn’t God favor me?

The answer to that question can revolutionize our life if we are willing to meet God’s one condition for full blessing. We are designed with a capacity to experience the Lord’s best in every area of life, but for that to happen, we must offer ourselves as living sacrifices. In other words, we are to be separated from the world and given to God for His purposes.

Don’t be fooled by cultural views on servants. God doesn’t call the weak into bondage to the strong. In fact, believers are the freest people in the world because we can trust our Father to give us the very best in return for our commitment. His best may not always look appealing from the outset, but experience teaches us that He orchestrates all circumstances to our benefit (Rom. 8:28).

We can never be satisfied with less than the Lord’s best. Avoiding submission will result in wasted years of chasing after His blessing through our own cunning. On the other hand, our hearts are saturated with joy and peace when we draw close to Him. The best way to connect with God is to willingly put ourselves in His hand. Allow Him to reveal what great blessings He can send via your surrendered will.

 

Charles Stanley

Charles Stanley – Responding to Stress

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Charles Stanley

We become steadfast Christians, able to endure and overcome, through the power of Jesus Christ. Job stress has become such a universal problem that many medical professionals now classify it as an occupationally related disease, precipitating numerous other serious problems such as ulcers, depression, and even suicide.

Causes of Stress

In our complex environment, however, pressure on the job is just one of many causes of high tension and anxiety. Family trouble, financial difficulty, and other factors induce a great deal of turmoil. In fact, there is even a detailed list that assigns points to the various sources of stress. For example, the most stressful of events is the death of a spouse, divorce, marital separation, a jail term, death of another family member, and illness or injury. Still, the strains of work account for many of the stress-producing agents, including dismissal, retirement, business readjustment, change to a different kind of work, change in work responsibilities, trouble with supervision, and change in work hours or conditions.

Common Reactions to Stress

There are several common reactions to stress. Many try to flee the problem—changing jobs, bosses, or environment—in the hopes that the irritation will go away. Some internalize their duress, seeking to suppress it. However, it usually spills over into some other area, most often into the family life. Still others crumble emotionally, giving way to despair and depression.

The Christian’s Responses to Stress

The believer’s response to such adversity is critical if he is to emerge successfully. The Word of God reveals several fundamental principles that can bring us through tough times and even positively benefit our spiritual and emotional well-being in the process.

First, we should look at our situation as with a telescope, not under a microscope. All too often, we magnify our troubles beyond their significance and in so doing increase their pressure. Instead, remember that God is the author and finisher of our faith, knowing the end from the beginning and providing all of our necessities for the present. Concentrate on today’s problems, not tomorrow’s, and thank God for His daily grace to sustain you.

Second, rely on God’s strength, not yours. Satan deceives us into thinking we can handle our strains in our own cleverness and abilities—until we are almost at the breaking point. The key is to lean on His indwelling might at the initial stage of the problem. God’s strength comes as He stabilizes our emotions with His peace, infuses our hearts with His joy, and provides us with His all-sufficient wisdom to deal with any hardship in life. “Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might” (Ephesians 6:10). “He gives power to the weak, and to those who have no might He increases strength” (Isaiah 40.29).

Third, thank God that He is at work producing some positive results from your stressful circumstances. Trials always turn us toward the Lord, seeking and trusting Him with new fervor. Trials also are working in us to create sturdier Christian character and the ability to persevere under the load. “And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope” (Romans 5:3, 4). As we turn to the sufficiency of Christ and trust in His power and wisdom, we gain new spiritual maturity and hardiness of spirit.

How God Uses Our Stressful Times

God is never out to break us or shatter us. He knows our frame and will not overload us in times of stress. Rather, He seeks to use our stressful times as cleverly disguised opportunities for us to gain His perspective, lean on His strength, and develop steadfastness with which we can run life’s course.

God may not change the circumstance that is pressing so grievously on you. He may not remove that person who vexes you so greatly. He may not heal that affliction that daily grates away at your body and soul. But He will dramatically alter your own emotions and responses as you turn to Him instead of running or exploding.

Over time, you truly will find His strength, wisdom, and presence sufficient for the fray. Your stress will become a catalyst for spiritual stability instead of an agent of destruction and despair. The pressure will reinforce your faith, not weaken it. We became steadfast Christians, able to endure and overcome through the power of Jesus Christ.

“Cast your burden on the LORD, and He shall sustain you; He shall never permit the righteous to be moved” (Psalm 55:22).

For further insights, read the following passages:

Isaiah 30:15
Matthew 5:11-12
Matthew 6:25-34
Luke 12:22-34
Acts 5:40-41

Adapted from “Priority Profiles for Today’s Workplace” by Charles F. Stanley.

 

Charles Stanley

Charles Stanley – The Pain of Bitterness

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Charles Stanley

1 Samuel 13:5-14

Bitterness is never a proper response for a child of God. It poisons the mind, emotions, and spirit. When did this resentful attitude take root in Saul? Let’s look at two events in his life for clues.

Saul couldn’t go to battle until Samuel arrived to offer the burnt sacrifice as God had commanded. Before the prophet arrived, though, Saul’s men became scared of the enemy and started to leave, so the king took action and made the sacred offering himself. He may have thought, This has to be done right away. Why shouldn’t I do it? He failed to see the necessity of obeying divine commands to the letter. God saw this as a serious act of rebellion, which brought judgment: Saul’s kingdom wouldn’t endure. God would one day appoint someone else to take over as ruler instead of Saul’s descendants. Imagine Saul’s reaction to hearing the kingdom would not belong to his family.

During the war against the Amalekites, King Saul once again failed to follow the Lord’s instructions fully. When Samuel confronted him about his misdeed, he lied and claimed that he had obeyed. Later, however, Saul attempted to justify his disobedience. His unrepentant heart grieved the Lord and resulted in further judgment: he, the king, was now rejected by God (1 Sam. 15:10-11, 26).

I believe Saul’s descent into bitterness began with the news that his disobedience would cost him the kingdom. Be sure to take your disappointments and anger immediately to the Lord. Pour them out before Him, and ask that He help you let them go. Your spiritual health depends on it.

 

Charles Stanley

Charles Stanley – The Danger of Bitterness

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Charles Stanley

1 Samuel 18:1-30

King Saul had it all: God’s anointing on him as ruler; the prophet Samuel to guide him; the power and wealth of the kingdom of Israel; the applause of the people. Yet he died a bitter man. What steps led to his downfall?

• Anger. When Goliath was defeated, the crowds praised Saul as a killer of thousands but David as a slayer of tens of thousands. Instead of rejoicing that God had raised up someone to slay the giant, Saul grew angry with David for receiving more praise than he did.

• Wrong thinking. Saul’s flaring temper affected his mind, and he became suspicious of David’s motives. He started thinking that since the Lord was with David, the young man would want to take over the kingdom right away.

• Fear. Saul’s fear led to plotting against David and throwing spears at him.

• Rejection. The king sent David away from his presence.

• Dread. Saul’s fear grew stronger with David’s military success and the people’s growing love for the younger man.

• Deceitful action. Twice the king tried to manipulate David by offering one of his daughters in marriage. Both times he plotted to get David killed by the Philistines, and each attempt failed. Saul’s response was to become David’s enemy for the rest of his days. From then on, bitterness reigned.

Although the details of our lives differ from Saul’s, the steps to bitterness and ruin are the same. What unresolved anger do you allow to fester? Whom do you avoid because of ill will? Won’t you confess your sin, turn to God, and be set free?

 

 

Charles Stanley

Charles Stanley – Results of Uncontrolled Weakness

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Charles Stanley

Romans 6:17-23

It is normal for children, at some point, to become aware of growing stronger. “Let’s see your muscles,” a parent will say. The child bends an arm, makes a fist, and proudly displays the evidence. Parents often encourage their children to increase strength and overcome any weakness. Some youngsters cooperate, but others act indifferent or feel defeated even before they start.

We all have weak areas in our lives. How do we respond to them? Do we make a plan to overcome them? Do we pretend they are unimportant or surrender to them without much effort? None of these responses is what God desires for us. He wants our weaknesses to remind us how totally dependent we are upon His strength and how great our need is for Him. His plan is for our frailties to be a powerful motivator to deepen our relationship with Him.

Handled improperly, those areas in which we lack ability can become stumbling blocks that hurt us and those around us. A proper response—namely, turning to God—means He will take charge of our weaknesses and no longer allow them to dominate our lives.

Samson was a man whom God set apart and equipped for divine purposes. But he had an uncontrollable weakness, which he allowed to run unchecked until it destroyed his work for the Lord (Judg. 13-16). We, as Christ-followers, have also been set apart for God’s work and equipped by Him. We should heed the warning of Samson’s life and turn quickly to God every time our weakness surfaces. Delay could mean disaster.

 

Charles Stanley

Charles Stanley – The Offer of a Second Chance

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Charles Stanley

John 8:1-11

I’ve never met a person who didn’t have a past. Never have I spoken with a man or a woman whose life didn’t include a “yesterday”, a “last week,” or a “last year.” And if someone has a past, you can be sure he or she has some mistakes scattered throughout it.

If every one of us has a past, then why do we so often feel isolated, alone, and ashamed of what was done “once upon a time”? Why do we allow the shadows of our long-ago to darken our today?

The answer is a matter of perspective. When we look back at our lives, we usually see mistakes through the lens of guilt, remorse, or fear of judgment. The old axiom says that hindsight is 20/20—what we once accepted as permissible behavior may now shock us as we realize the gravity of those actions.

But how does our heavenly Father perceive us? Is He hampered or even influenced by the same dirty lenses through which we tend to look? No, He sees us with crystal clarity. That means He sees us completely, but He is free of the guilt and remorse that tend to color our perceptions.

More than that, our loving Father looks upon us with the perfect grace and forgiveness that only He can offer. Though our mistakes may hurt Him, the Lord regards us in love. If you have faced your sin problem and accepted the forgiveness that is available in Jesus Christ, then you can be certain you are now living a life of second chances. For the rest of your days on earth, you can have the joy of knowing that you are forgiven.

 

Charles Stanley

Charles Stanley – Suffering a Faith Failure

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Charles Stanley

Numbers 13-14

When you hear the term “faith failure,” what comes to mind? If you’re like most people, the expression immediately drums up uncomfortable thoughts of a spiritual stain on your Christian walk. Try as we might, however, we simply cannot or will not go through this life without failing from time to time.

Most troubling to Christians are those instances when we allow other factors to get in the way of what we know God is telling us. Can you remember a time when you knew the Lord wanted you to do something, but for some reason, you decided upon a different course of action? When we allow anything to short-circuit our obedience to the heavenly Father, we can be certain that we have just had a faith failure.

One of the key reasons for spiritual missteps is the simple issue of fear. Now, we never have to be afraid of losing our salvation once we are secure in Christ; instead, what I’m talking about here is the fear of failure. We simply do not want to fall on our face in the challenge God sets before us. So, rather than meet the call head-on, we run and hide. In our minds, it is better not even to bother trying than to try and fail.

Is that the attitude God desires? Of course not. Our heavenly Father hasn’t given us a spirit of fear (2 Tim. 1:7 nlt); He desires boldness and veracity in our faith. Don’t bow down to the idol of apprehension. The God who calls you is strong enough to keep you. Whenever He assigns you to a task, you can be sure He’ll empower you to achieve it.

 

Charles Stanley

Charles Stanley – The Cost of Compromise

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Charles Stanley

1 Kings 11:1-8

Our society nurtures a popular misconception that tolerance is the only reasonable worldview to have. But when it comes to the law of God, King Solomon’s life shows that compromise is a destructive choice.

In the early years of Solomon’s reign, he was committed to doing right. But later, when he saw the opportunity to promote himself politically, he ignored Scripture’s command forbidding marriage to pagans (Deut. 7:1-3; 1 Kings 3:1). Though he may have viewed the union as an insignificant deviation, Satan’s strategy is to convince us to compromise small portions of God’s Word, one at a time.

Solomon admired beautiful women of other nationalities, but instead of finding ways to avoid temptation, he permitted himself one relationship and then sought more and more. Surrounded by foreigners, he inevitably became involved in their religions. Eventually he was ensnared by sin, and his heart turned from God.

Solomon’s temptations may differ from ours, but accepting compromise can trap us as well. Unchecked admiration for something beyond God’s will for our life can convince us to pursue it. Though we intellectually know this choice is wrong, it’s easy to harden our heart against the Spirit’s warnings. A preoccupation can deepen until the desired object, person, or activity holds a place of greater priority than our Father. If we allow that to happen, we lose our freedom in Jesus Christ and become caught in a prison of sin. In other words, the cost of compromise is the corruption of our soul.

 

Charles Stanley

Charles Stanley – When You Feel Discouraged

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Charles Stanley

It’s natural to experience discouragement when someone lets you down. But unfortunately, this emotion can be a breeding ground for bitterness and resentment. If we blame God for what happened, our devotion to Him may suffer. We might forsake spending time alone with Him or give up on the dreams He gave us. Eventually, we could give up on Him altogether. Disappointment has the potential to poison our entire lives. Unless you and I respond to it wisely, we can become overwhelmed by hopelessness, cynicism, and depression.

David experienced discouragement. Samuel had anointed him king of Israel, but for years the former shepherd had to live in the wilderness, running from Saul. Through that difficult time, he looked to the Lord for encouragement. Psalm 23 gives us insight into how David coped with unexpected setbacks.

First, David turned to God with his discouragement. “The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want” (v. 1). He didn’t ask, What am I going to do? He knew Who the source of his strength was. God would both show him how to deal with the situation and reveal any feelings of disappointment.

David went on to write, “He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside quiet waters” (v. 2). When our hearts are in tune with the Lord, we will have peace. Even though we may be in the middle of a trial, we will be able to walk through difficulty without becoming overwhelmed by fear.

You may not know why God has allowed disappointment, frustration, or deep sorrow in your life. Regardless, what matters most is the focus of your faith. Is it set on God or your ability? The Lord has good plans for your life, but they will likely include more than just mountaintop experiences; you must be willing to walk with Him through the valleys as well.

Second, David admitted there was a problem. He did not try to deny or ignore it. We have to wonder how many times Satan whispered, “You are never going to be king” or “You will die in battle before you take the throne.” The Enemy’s tactic is to draw us away from God by planting seeds of doubt. However, David resisted. He had a personal, loving relationship with the Creator of the universe and knew that the Lord would fulfill His promise at the right time. Hebrews 11:6 says, “Without faith it is impossible to please [God], for he who comes to God must believe that He is and that He is a rewarder of those who seek Him.”

Third, David understood that the Lord had allowed his trials, and there was purpose in his suffering. Instead of sinking into despair, David immediately turned to God, admitted there was a problem, and acknowledged his inability to face it alone. He refused to let the Enemy’s attack overwhelm him. And He realized the Lord wanted to teach him a lesson.
The same is true for you. When trouble comes, you can know without a doubt that God plans to use it for good (Rom. 8:28-29).

Fourth, David kept his focus on the Lord. There will be times when you receive conflicting information. For instance, a friend’s advice may clash with what your mind tells you. In cases like this, ask God to make His will perfectly clear.

Open your Bible, get on your knees, and cry out, “Lord, speak to my heart. Help me hear Your voice so I will have clear guidance through this stressful time.” Sometimes the Lord will lift the discouragement immediately and completely because you have turned to Him in faith. When that happens, thank Him for the truth of Jeremiah 33:3: “Call to Me and I will answer you, and I will tell you great and mighty things, which you do not know.”

David often recalled the times God had delivered him in the past. The cornerstone of his confidence was the Lord’s faithfulness. Time after time, he had witnessed God’s goodness at work in his life. Therefore, he could say, “You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You have anointed my head with oil; my cup overflows” (Ps. 23:5).

Finally, David confessed with his mouth that God would fulfill His promise. “Surely goodness and lovingkindness will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever” (Ps. 23:6). When it came to devotion, there was no question that David was committed to God.

You can overcome discouragement by proclaiming biblical truth. Turn to God’s Word and study about His faithfulness, attributes, and promises to the church. Dig deep and you will gain an awesome perspective of His nature—who He is and the depth of His intimate love for you. The Father listens when you pray to Him, and He will come to your aid, just as He did for David.

Adapted from “Landmines in the Pathway of the Believer” (2007).

 

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Charles Stanley

Charles Stanley – God’s Grace and Our Finances

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Charles Stanley

Ephesians 2:1-10

Ice cream is popular in the summer. But not all stores serve portions of the same size. Some establishments are generous with their scoops, others are fair, and one or two seem stingy with the frozen treat. It doesn’t take long for customers to learn the “standard” that is used by a particular store.

God uses a very generous measure with us, making His grace abound to us so we have all we need to serve and obey Him (2 Cor. 9:8). And He ensures that His grace—in other words, His unmerited favor and goodness—will affect all areas of life, including our finances. He does this so we can generously invest in His kingdom with our resources and our lives.

But the definition of generosity varies greatly. Some Christians understand God’s principles and give willingly and liberally. These believers have learned that God applies grace to our finances so we can be generous toward others rather than concerned simply about our own prosperity. For others, giving is “fair”—they faithfully give an “adequate amount.” But sadly, too many of God’s children appear stingy toward Him: they either refuse to share much of what they have or spend most of it on themselves.

Generosity is a matter of the heart and a way of life. With a focus on others, giving is to be done freely and cheerfully. People with this attitude trust God to meet their needs and are set free to give away even what they long to keep. No matter how little we have, the Lord wants us to be magnanimous people. Do you know someone who is considered generous? Is it you?

 

Charles Stanley

Charles Stanley – Promises to Heal

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Charles Stanley

James 5:13-18

Have you ever wondered why we see far fewer miracles today than what the Bible reports? God has not changed, nor has His power. And our needs are no fewer than those of that day. Why, then, do we witness less of His powerful healing in modern society?

James 4:2-3 lists two reasons: “You do not have because you do not ask. You ask and do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, so that you may spend it on your pleasures.”

God’s power may also be hindered by a lack of faith. In fact, because the people in Jesus’ own hometown rejected Him, He did few miracles there (Matt. 13:57-58).

There’s another reason, and it may be the most difficult to comprehend and accept: Sometimes the Lord’s perfect and loving will is not for our health to be restored immediately—or ever. He might have a lesson for us to learn that requires suffering so we can listen and understand. Because our Father knows the big picture that we are unable to see, He may allow the difficulty to remain.

Paul accepted this. He asked God three times to remove what he called his “thorn in the flesh” (2 Cor. 12:7). But he finally understood that it would continue and the Lord’s power would be made perfect through his weakness.

God desires that you turn to Him as Lord and Healer. Pray with faith in Jesus’ name, bringing your requests but also surrendering to His will. Trust that He can do anything—and that what He does will be in your best interest and for His glory. Our heavenly Father still does miracles today.

Charles Stanley

Charles Stanley – Jesus, the Healer

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Charles Stanley

Matthew 14:14

When I was 11 years old, I found my mother on her bed, struggling to breathe. My first reaction was to fall on my knees and pray for her healing. By the next day, she was better, and she never again experienced that same symptom.

CPR trainers teach that the first step in an emergency is to call for help. That’s good medical advice. But we should also develop a reflex of crying “Help!” to God.

The Great Physician is able to heal. He created us and knows every mechanism in our bodies, down to the most minute detail. Sometimes He chooses to take away the problem immediately when we ask, and other times, in His love and omniscience, He allows the ailment to remain. Seeking a doctor’s help is often His plan for us—but He also wants us to come before Him with our need, acknowledging His ultimate power and ability.

Scripture is full of stories about the Lord healing physical, emotional, and spiritual sicknesses. For example, Old Testament accounts tell of divine healing for barrenness (Gen. 17:18-19; 21:2) and leprosy (Ex. 4:6-7). And then in the New Testament, all it took was a touch from Jesus and wholeness was restored for people with all kinds of infirmities. Jesus also gave His disciples authority to heal in His name (Matt. 10:1).

As you read Scripture, notice how often God healed people—and how He valued their faith. When in need, ask for His help. He may grant your request immediately, or His plan might be to bring greater good down the road. Either way, walking closely with Him is always the healthiest and wisest choice.

Charles Stanley

Charles Stanley – Holding Fast to the Faithful Word

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Charles Stanley

Titus 1:5-9

In today’s passage, Paul gives Titus guidelines for selecting church elders. At the end of a list of desirable conduct and character traits is an essential qualification that applies to every believer: holding fast to Scripture. It is necessary that we, like the first-century elders, demonstrate an unwavering commitment to God’s Word in order to nurture and guard the church.

We can’t use the Bible to defend our faith and assist others unless we study. And knowing its truths isn’t enough; for them to be effective, we must apply them.

Christians appreciate Scripture’s power to encourage, comfort, and heal, but too often we keep our knowledge to ourselves. We may feel uncertain about sharing, but God provides courage and brings to mind pertinent verses when we’re willing to speak. As we practice His ways, our wisdom will increase. We’ll begin to recognize hurting people and will learn how to exhort them in sound doctrine, as Paul suggests. The apostle also bids believers to confront those who contradict true faith—this requires courage and discernment. When we study and live out sound biblical principles, we will quickly recognize false doctrine. And the better we know God’s Word, the more readily we will be able to find passages that challenge counterfeit teachings and support our own beliefs.

We can’t all be elders in the local congregation. But each Christian is a member of God’s church and responsible to gain biblical knowledge. In that way, we can discern correct doctrine, defend our faith, and encourage the downhearted.

Charles Stanley

Charles Stanley – Prevailing Faith

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Charles Stanley

Romans 4:18-25

Continuing yesterday’s study of faith that conquers, let’s look at other elements of this type of godly trust.

• Confession of Faith. David declared, “I come to you in the name of the Lord of hosts” (1 Sam. 17:45) and stated his trust in God’s deliverance. Whenever we face difficulties, we, too, must proclaim our faith, expressing thanks to the Lord for who He is, who we are in Christ, and what we have through His Spirit.

• Reliance on the Lord’s power. Not once did David claim he was going to defeat the enemy. Instead, he pointed out that the battle was the Lord’s; it was by the power of the Almighty that victory would be gained. In the hand of God’s servant, a simple stone was mightier than the weapons of the Philistine army.

• Assumption of Victory. Prevailing faith reckons the victory before the battle even begins. When the young shepherd looked at Goliath, he saw him as a dead man. In fact, because of David’s relationship with the Lord, he understood that all giants— whether bears, lions, or Goliaths—were the same.

How does this reckoning take place? First, we fight the “battle before the battle.” Through prayer and meditation on Scripture, we work through any uncertainties and fears. We reaffirm in our heart that this is the Lord’s battle, declare He has won the victory, and wait for His timing. When we act, we do it God’s way, with trust in His presence and provision.

For what area of your life do you need prevailing faith? Approach the throne of grace with faith to receive what you need (Heb. 4:16).

Charles Stanley

Charles Stanley – Conquering Faith

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Charles Stanley

1 Samuel 17:1-37

David, the shepherd boy, faced Goliath, the Philistine giant. By trusting in God’s power to deliver, David was victorious over his seemingly invincible opponent. We, too, will face trials that are bigger than we are. The Lord wants to build conquering faith in us so that we, like David, can overcome. What are the components of such faith?

• Godly motivation. David’s desire was to defend his people and God’s name. We must examine our rationale to be certain it is Christ-centered, not self-focused.

• Recognition of the battle’s nature. In the lives of born-again believers, every single incident is a spiritual matter. David’s struggle in the physical realm was against Goliath, but the real battle was spiritual (Eph. 6:12).

• Memory of previous victories. David’s confidence was not based on what was happening right then. Instead, he recalled what the Lord had done before: helping him fight off lions and bears. Imagine a film that highlights all the moments when God provided you with strength and stamina. Replay it until you are ready for the fight.

• Rejection of ungodly counsel. David was certain of God’s purpose for him, so he refused to listen to his brother’s accusations of impure motives. He also rejected King Saul’s assessment of his youthfulness. Instead, the young shepherd boy inclined his ear to hear from the Lord and any counselors He might send.

What “Goliath” is standing before you? Remember that in Christ, we can be overcomers (1 John 5:4).

Charles Stanley

Charles Stanley – In Times of Despair

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Charles Stanley

There are devastating times in our lives that stretch everything we know and believe. We are in pain—at times physically, at other times emotionally, and sometimes both. Some of these seasons last much longer than a few days, and the physical strain can take a terrible toll on our emotions. Conversely—when we are continuously despondent and disheartened, our bodies can suffer as well. Frustrations and setbacks bombard us at an alarming rate, undermining our every confidence. Just when we think we will get better, more bad news hits us.

We wonder why God would allow all the agony we are experiencing. We ask, “Why me, Lord? Why now?”At the same time, the enemy is doing his best to make us question whether the Father really loves us—bringing up old sins, faults, and mistakes that have already been forgiven, and insinuating they disqualify us from the Lord’s blessings. What makes it even worse is that joy is just outside our reach—and we have no hope of taking hold of it. The sense of loss, helplessness, futility, and dissatisfaction with ourselves can be absolutely overwhelming.

Have you ever experienced this? Have you faced the dark depths of despair—wondering if you’ll ever climb out? Have you wondered, Why isn’t the Father helping me? I am trying to serve Him. Why has this situation only gotten worse instead of better? Why doesn’t He heal me? You cry out to Him and He comforts you, but the trial does not end and you cannot understand what He is doing. So you question, Has the Lord failed? Am I so far gone and so intensely damaged that He cannot help me?

No, my friend, the Father has not failed you. And the fact that He is still working on you is evidence that not only does He see your great potential, but He also desires to touch the world through you in an astounding way (Heb. 12:4–11).

It is in looking to Him that we ultimately have the greatest hope, joy, peace, and freedom. The prophet Isaiah testifies, “Although the Lord has given you bread of privation and water of oppression, He, your Teacher will no longer hide Himself, but your eyes will behold your Teacher. Your ears will hear a word behind you, ‘This is the way, walk in it,’ whenever you turn to the right or to the left” (Isa. 30:20–21). When you are able to rely on Him fully, you recognize that regardless of what circumstances you face, your Teacher—your omnipotent, omniscient, omnipresent, and unconditionally loving God—is there to guide you, protect you, and provide for you perfectly.

The Challenge of Choice

The challenge, of course, is that you must make the choice to trust Him. You must look beyond the painful circumstances—all the evidence you can see, feel, smell, hear, and touch—and realize there is a greater unseen reality, which is the presence of the Living God (2 Cor. 4:16–18). This is not easy, but takes a constant refocus and realignment of your thinking. Everything in your spirit may fight against it, and with good reason. How can you trust One whom you cannot experience with your five senses? Yet to do otherwise is no option at all—the consequences of discouragement are just too great.

Therefore, choose to take heart and hope in the Lord. You have almighty God on your side. Invite Him into your life as your Redeemer, Deliverer, Protector, Provider, and Friend. Think about the astounding privilege it is that you can count on Him, and allow it to comfort your aching soul. You can let go of your despair and look forward to the future. You will most likely be absolutely astounded at the plans your heavenly Father has for you.

If you will view each difficulty and challenge that comes to you as an opportunity to learn more about your heavenly Father, draw closer to Him in loving fellowship, and be cleansed from your bondage to sin, I guarantee your life will be absolutely transformed (1 Pet. 1:6–7). But how do you do so? How do you maintain your trust in God when you face difficulties and distresses?

1. Allow Signs of Despair to Lead You to Prayer

The emotions you’re experiencing are a warning sign to your spirit revealing that you need to turn to God. He is calling you—drawing you into a relationship with Him. Go to Him with an open heart and invite Him to teach you. Ask the Father, “What is it You desire to accomplish in and through me?” Then open your Bible before Him and allow Him to guide you to the truth He desires to teach you.

2. Take Stock of Your Life

Are you struggling with weariness, frustration, isolation, or are you eating an unhealthy diet? This may be adding to your despair. Don’t allow the enemy to get a foothold. Rather, recall the acrostic H.A.L.T.—whenever you’re Hungry, Angry, Lonely, or Tired, remember to stop, refuel, and seek the Lord’s guidance. God will encourage your heart and give you the ability to endure whatever trouble you may face. And if you face trials, difficulties, or emotions that are too overwhelming to handle on your own, seek godly believers who will support and help you.

3. Commit Yourself to Your Father’s Plans

Did you know that one of the biggest gold deposits that was ever excavated in the United States was discovered two inches beneath where a previous miner had given up? We make a terrible mistake when we decide to quit because we fear our circumstances will never change. But friend, God has wonderful plans for your future!

I cannot stress enough how important it is to cling to the Lord with all your heart, mind, soul, and strength regardless of what happens, with the knowledge that He ultimately provides what is absolutely best for you. The truth of the matter is, sometimes you will not understand why the Father allows certain challenges to touch your life, but with God there is always hope. And there are abundant blessings that you will forfeit if you give in to your discouragement.

Don’t miss out on the good things the Father has for you by submitting to despair. Rather, claim Psalm 30:5, “Weeping may last for the night, but a shout of joy comes in the morning.” Devote yourself to the Lord. Keep focused on staying in the center of His will and fulfilling His plans for your life, because He will certainly strengthen you to go on.

4. Embrace Who God Says You Are

Often, when we struggle with despair, experience loss, or fail at something important, we attribute our painful feelings to our own sense of worth. We believe that we don’t deserve acceptance or anything good, and it is very difficult to break out of those beliefs because they are so intrinsic to our identity.
However, you must accept the reality that how you view yourself is not who you really are. Your perception is incorrect. Rather, the only One who truly understands your potential and worth is the Father, who accepts you, promises to love you unconditionally, and enables you to do all He calls you to do.
Zephaniah 3:17 affirms, “The Lord your God is in your midst, a victorious warrior. He will exult over you with joy, He will be quiet in His love, He will rejoice over you with shouts of joy.” Your heavenly Father is committed to winning the battles for you (Ex. 14:14). Therefore, train your eyes on Him, obey His commands, and accept who He created you to be—a vessel who shines with His glory.

5. Praise the Lord

You have two choices when you face discouraging circumstances. You can focus on the problems, which will cause you greater despair. Or you can look to God and praise Him for what He is—your absolutely sure Foundation, Everlasting Hope, Mighty Warrior, Perfect Provider, Beloved Counselor, Sovereign King of kings, Incomparable Protector, Great Physician, and Unfailing Friend.
You see, dejection and praise cannot coexist in your heart for very long. Because when you gaze on the abundant goodness and mercy of the Father and you voice your sincere thankfulness and adoration to Him, there is no way to maintain a hopeless state. It is an absolute fact: praising God is a bulwark against despair.

6. Do the Lord’s Work

Finally, realize that your suffering is never in vain.  Adversity not only helps you to know God better but it also trains us for His service to others.

This is a principle we can find in 2 Corinthians 1:3–4, which proclaims, “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction so that we will be able to comfort those who are in any affliction with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.”

When you and I find victory over fear, rejection, bitterness, guilt and despair, we become ambassadors the Lord can work through to lead others to freedom. This is because we know how they feel, we can assure them they are not alone, and we will have compassion to walk with them as they pursue healing. An additional benefit of this, of course, is that while we are ministering to others, our focus if off our own troubles. Therefore, overcome your discouragement by offering yourself to God and allowing Him to do His awesome work through you.

Friend, no matter what happens in your life, don’t let go of the Savior. Despair doesn’t have to keep you in its grip. You can defeat it by choosing to think about all the Father has given you and the great plans He has for your future.

So respond to your feelings of discouragement with prayer and your thoughts of defeat with truth from His Word. Commit yourself to trusting His plan regardless of the circumstances, claim His unfailing promises, cling to His loving presence, and lift your voice in praise to Him. Learn to see the adversity you face as a tool that the Lord is using to do something extraordinary in your life.

Then, even in the midst of disheartening challenges, you can be a victor who experiences His supernatural hope, strength, joy, and peace.

Excerpt from Emotions: Confront the Lies. Conquer with Truth.

 

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Charles Stanley

Charles Stanley – A Right View of Repentance

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Charles Stanley

Luke 3:1-14

If you have ever watched soldiers doing close-order drill on a parade field, you know how quickly they can reverse themselves and head in the opposite direction. If they attempt this while standing still, the command is “about face.” If they want to reverse while marching, the command is “to the rear, march.” In either case, there is an abrupt change leading in an entirely different direction. This is a good picture of what genuine repentance looks like. It means to change one’s mind and start moving the opposite way.

One of the Bible’s greatest preachers of repentance was John the Baptist, who called his hearers to a complete “about face.” He had seen too many shallow gestures where people pretended to repent but were not willing to change their behavior. John insisted that those who exhibited only superficial contrition should instead “bear fruits in keeping with repentance” (Luke 3:8). When his listeners asked what he meant by that, they were told to share their food and clothing, to be fair in their business practices, and to be content with their wages. In other words, they were to change their ways and leave their old patterns of behavior behind.

Repentance includes something else: a willingness to make restitution to anyone whom we have wronged. When Zaccheus the tax collector received Jesus into his house, he showed the true nature of his repentance when he said, “If I have defrauded anyone of anything, I will give back four times as much” (Luke 19:8). Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal any amends you may need to make.

Charles Stanley

Charles Stanley – How Do We Find Favor with God?

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Charles Stanley

Psalm 101:1-4

Once we have the favor of God through salvation, does it matter how we act? The Bible responds with an emphatic “Yes!” and gives us numerous examples of godly lives to consider.

• Noah responded to God by walking with Him daily. And our Father responds positively to those who walk closely with Him, live by His Word, and listen carefully to His Holy Spirit. For those of us who believe, that means not only making Scripture a vital part of our lives but also learning who God is and what He likes. How well do you know Him?

• Moses, despite initial protests, chose to obey the divine call and live life God’s way. The Lord favors followers who choose His preferences over their own—that is, those who think about their life in terms of pleasing Him. This requires learning to think as He does. How closely do your thoughts align with His?

• Paul, after his conversion, lived with the single-minded focus of serving Jesus. He sought to do his best by means of inward and outward obedience. The Lord favors those whose hearts are bent toward Him. Do others see that your life is centered around Christ?

• Mary responded with trust and did not doubt when the angel announced that she would give birth to the Messiah. God extends His blessings to those who choose to believe even when evidence says otherwise. How much do you trust the Lord?

We find favor with our heavenly Father through believing minds, responsive hearts, and obedient spirits. Won’t you let this increasingly describe you?

 

Charles Stanley

Charles Stanley – How Do We Find Favor with God?

1 Comment

Charles Stanley

Psalm 101:1-4

Once we have the favor of God through salvation, does it matter how we act? The Bible responds with an emphatic “Yes!” and gives us numerous examples of godly lives to consider.

• Noah responded to God by walking with Him daily. And our Father responds positively to those who walk closely with Him, live by His Word, and listen carefully to His Holy Spirit. For those of us who believe, that means not only making Scripture a vital part of our lives but also learning who God is and what He likes. How well do you know Him?

• Moses, despite initial protests, chose to obey the divine call and live life God’s way. The Lord favors followers who choose His preferences over their own—that is, those who think about their life in terms of pleasing Him. This requires learning to think as He does. How closely do your thoughts align with His?

• Paul, after his conversion, lived with the single-minded focus of serving Jesus. He sought to do his best by means of inward and outward obedience. The Lord favors those whose hearts are bent toward Him. Do others see that your life is centered around Christ?

• Mary responded with trust and did not doubt when the angel announced that she would give birth to the Messiah. God extends His blessings to those who choose to believe even when evidence says otherwise. How much do you trust the Lord?

We find favor with our heavenly Father through believing minds, responsive hearts, and obedient spirits. Won’t you let this increasingly describe you?

Charles Stanley

Charles Stanley – Living by Grace

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Charles Stanley

Romans 5:1-11

Grace is God’s goodness and kindness to those who do not deserve it and cannot earn it. Its benefits are available to everyone.

Each day God causes hearts to beat, bodies to heal, and love to be given and received, regardless of peoples’ opinions of Him. He offers forgiveness to the rebellious, freedom to sinners, and personal fellowship with Himself. All who trust Christ as Savior have access to the throne of grace, where the Savior serves as high priest, interceding for His own (Heb. 4:16; 7:25). We know we can approach God confidently because there is no condemnation for those who belong to Him (Rom. 8:1). What amazing grace!

It wasn’t always so. Israel—God’s chosen people—lived under the Law, not grace. Because they, like us, were a disobedient people, God in His mercy established the sacrificial system to temporarily provide a symbolic way for them to be forgiven of wrongdoing.

Jesus, however, gives us permanent forgiveness because His death was a one-time payment-in-full for all sins ever committed—even future ones (7:27). No mere human could obey every aspect of all 613 divine commandments handed down through Moses. But Christ fulfilled the Law for us, and grace makes it count on our behalf. Our Savior sacrificed His life for us, and as a result, we can approach God’s throne directly.

God’s grace is over us like a canopy and around us like a protective wall. Let the truth of it permeate your heart and mind, so you can become an expression of His love, kindness, and goodness to others.