Pastor Tricia's Ramblings

Have you ever found yourself facing a challenging situation where, despite your efforts to trust God, a wave of panic washes over you? You’re praying, affirming your faith, yet fearful thoughts persistently plague your mind. If you can relate, you are not alone. I’ve been there too—more times than I’d like to admit. But here’s the comforting truth: we don’t have to panic; we can take our troubles to God, just like David did in Psalms 27.
David beautifully illustrates in Psalms 27:1-5 that we have access to God’s protection, provision, deliverance, goodness, hope, and encouragement. In those moments of overwhelming trouble, he sought God’s presence, and it is within that sacred space that he found strength. Yet, seeking God isn’t always our first response during times of stress or struggle. When the pressure mounts, trusting in God’s word can feel incredibly difficult.

Let’s be real: while we know in theory that we should trust God all the time, it’s often in our storms—when we feel at our most vulnerable—that we retreat from Him or even blame Him for our circumstances. Ephesians 3:16 highlights Paul’s prayer that we would be “strengthened and reinforced with mighty power in your spirit.” Jesus also warned us in John 16:33 that we would encounter troubles in this world. While we can’t change that reality, we can remember His encouragement to “be of good cheer” because He has overcome the world!

Trials and challenges are part of life, but by faith, we can walk in victory. The key is learning to view our struggles through a different lens. Instead of succumbing to panic, we can choose to rely on trust and lean on God’s word. As stated in Psalms 27:4, we are encouraged to be still in God’s presence and inquire about what He would have us do. This is not a passive wait; it is an active merging with the Divine.

Waiting, as described in Habakkuk 2:1-2, is an invitation to intertwine and connect with God, especially in the midst of our storms and struggles. It’s about allowing His presence to become our refuge and strength. So, come to God today just as you are. He desires to connect with you. Be open and honest; tell Him what’s truly going on in your life.
The more we stop pretending and instead engage authentically with God, the more we will experience His power manifesting through our prayers. As we lean into Him, we ignite a relationship that fosters incredible strength and guidance in our lives.

So, let’s commit to watch, wait, and work out our faith in partnership with God. Embrace the journey of encountering Him in every storm. We are not alone; our God is ever-present, waiting for us to seek Him with our whole hearts.