Remember the Promise

Scripture

Here's what Yahweh says to you: "I know all about the marvelous destiny I have in store for you, a future planned out in detail. My intention is not to harm you but to surround you with peace and prosperity and to give you a beautiful future, glistening with hope. When you call on me and come to me in prayer, I will listen to your every word." -Jeremiah 29:11-12

What do you do in the midst of calamity? When you've put action to your faith, and complications and problems arise, what is your default setting? Do you become anxious and upset with God? Do you get discouraged and are filled with fear? Whatever your automatic response to trouble reveals your level of faith. Some time ago, I found myself in a difficult situation where I desperately needed things to work out. At the moment, I was worried, and anxiety filled my heart. I received counsel from a family member, but I barely followed their instructions; I was so concerned. I wish I could say that there was a moment of clarity where I began to declare peace and favor over my situation, but there wasn't. The Lord worked it all out for me, but after the smoke had cleared, I asked God, "Why was that my automatic response when I know Your Word?"  Lovingly, yet honestly, the Holy Spirit said, "This situation exposed your level of faith." He showed me that simply knowing God's promises is not enough. There are spiritual principles that must be followed. 

So, what should I have done? The moment trouble arose, my first response should have been to go back to His promises. Had I not allowed fear and anxiety to overshadow me, I would have heard that still small voice, ushering me back to what has already been spoken to my heart. Then, I should have gone in prayer, not to beg for the situation to change, but to declare! I should have spoken with authority, the promises of God over my situation, binding fear, anxiety, and calamity. I should have released prosperity, favor, and peace over my problem. Finally, praise should have followed. Although at that moment I didn't see how things would work out, my praise would have released God's favor over my situation. Beloved, this is called negotiating in the spirit. 

When we face challenges after the promise has been given, we don't fall apart. We gird up our loins and fight. We rely on the wisdom of God to guide us in handling each situation in the spirit, not the flesh. Beloved, remember the promise, speak it over your situations, and give praise! 

Prayer

Father, thank you for the promise to give us an expected end. We don't have to worry or fear; we have to remember. We offer you all the praise; it has already been taken care of. In Jesus' name. Amen