I Chronicles 18:6
“Then David put garrisons among the Arameans of Damascus; and the Arameans became servants to David, bringing tribute. And the LORD helped David wherever he went.”
David was special. He loved the people and they loved him back. He loved God and God loved him. However, God intends for all of us to be like David. If we accept Christ and follow Him, God will help us wherever we go. It’s not like He likes us more than others. He can help all that follow Him.
What about those that don’t follow Him. He works in their hearts to turn them to Him. He will work their circumstances to do the same. They have to choose not to comply.
The way that He works circumstances is a miracle. Like a mobile that hangs from the ceiling. When touched the entirety of it moves. Our actions (or theirs) affect theirs (or ours). He works in all movements.
Romans 8:28 says, “And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” Even when things appear to be a loss, He can work it for the good. It’s often true that we don’t understand how this can be. He teaches us to trust Him.
I Thessalonians 5:18 says, “Give thanks in every circumstance, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” On a human level this is difficult to understand. Circumstances are good, bad or in between. We’re happy in the good and in between, but not for the bad. But this passage says to be thankful in every circumstance. Even the bad. We’re not happy things go bad, but we still trust Him.
Philippians 4:6 adds some to this passage, “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God.” Paul points out that anxiety can rise, but we are to pray about these things. To put those thoughts together we are to be thankful and pray. God will work it out.
Those on the outside may not see God’s hand in our circumstances, but we do. In the midst of it all we have His peace and His presence. We aren’t traveling alone. It’s like a pilot light on a stove. It’s always on. So He is with us. Storms may beat and winds will blow, but He’s still there. Maybe it’s better said that He’s there more.
Sometimes His pleasure is visible to others. He blesses us and wants others to see it. It’s an advertisement for Him. Some respond others don’t. God still works on them.
Thank You, Lord for Your favor. Even though circumstances are rough, You are there making them right. Thank You that we can praise You in the storm.