Prayer Power: Life is Tough

Recently, a desperate man entered a check cashing store looking for money. According to Robin Roberts of  Good Morning America, the robber planned to make a withdrawal using his loaded gun. But he hadn't counted on a tender hearted teller who started praying on the spot. Less than a hour later, clerk and thief were on their knees together, asking God to help them in their troubles.

In his book Prayer Power, Peter Lundell says, "Hardship is probably the most common tool God uses to grow our character." Although I've never stared down the barrel of a gun like Angela Montez (the clerk), I sometimes feel life is making more withdrawals than deposits! But how do I respond?

To be honest, sometimes I grumble and gripe. Character growth takes time and practice. But Lundell is right, hardship a the common tool found in the hands of God. So, instead of resisting difficulties, the best response is to rejoice.

Rejoice? I've got to be kidding, right?

But that's what the Bible says:

Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. (James 1:2-4)

In other words, when life hurts it also provides opportunity for growth. Learning to worship in the midst of every circumstance can be the pathway to inexplicable intimacy with God. Lundell calls it praise power.

Angela Montez told reporters that she felt God's presence during the robbery.  If you are like me, you'd rather feel God's presence in church! But that's the whole point isn't it? Life is all about connecting to God, whether we are in church, in our car, in in the midst of a stick up! God is a breath away. Every experience is an opportunity to grow closer to Him.

Gettin' Real,
Melodie
Everyone who comments either on the blog posts, through personal email to me, on my facebook, or on my Twitter will be entered into a drawing for a free copy of Prayer Power. At the end of the series I will congratulate the winner.

www.facebook.com/melodiefleming
www.twitter.com/melodiefleming
melodiefleming@sbcglobal.net