In Times Like These . . .
Corina Medina
When many seemingly adverse circumstances overtake us or our loved ones, we do well to remember that in the valleys can be loses, weaknesses, inabilities, illnesses and even death. He, our beloved Lord is our good Shepard who desires to lead us to the healing waters of His precious Word.
You see this in Psalms 84:5-8, “Blessed is the man whose strength is in thee; in whose heart are the ways of them.
Who passing through the valley of Baca make it a well; the rain also filleth the pools. They go from strength to strength, every one of them in Zion appeareth before God. O LORD God of hosts, hear my prayer: give ear, O God of Jacob. Selah.”
Draw close to these waters. Exodus 15:27, “And they came to Elim, where were twelve wells of water, and threescore and ten palm trees: and they encamped there by the waters.” Again, draw close to these waters and encamp there until he has finished the good work he began in you. As he shows us the wisdom of our submitting to the trial a given to us from His hand which we see written in Philippians 1:29 For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake.”
The waters speak of cleansing, healing, peace and rest. The palm trees speak of the fruitfulness He is working in our lives. As we submit to the circumstances there will be a peace that truly passes understanding, along with great comfort from the blessed Holy Spirit. And also, amazingly, joy in believing that in our inabilities (helpless estate) He is able to do exceedingly more than we ask or think.
II Corinthians 6:10, “As sorrowful, yet alway rejoicing; (impossible without dependence on His grace). Jeremiah 15:16, “Thy words were found, and I did eat them; and thy word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of mine heart: for I am called by thy name, O LORD God of hosts.”
So believing these things we look to Philippians 4:4-7 “Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice. Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand. Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”
Trust Him, He is adorning us and preparing us for eternity with our bridegroom. Psalm 45:13-15, “The king’s daughter is all glorious within: her clothing is of wrought gold. She shall be brought unto the king in raiment of needlework: the virgins her companions that follow her shall be brought unto thee. With gladness and rejoicing shall they be brought: they shall enter into the king’s palace.” So, looking forward to that glad day, we rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory. I Thessalonians 5:16-18, Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.”
