Ecclesiastes 7-9; Psalm 46; 2 Tim 3

Here’s the link to the audio file: https://on.soundcloud.com/A7P5c

HARD TIMES

Reading today’s scripture, I felt like I did as a kid when my parents took me to Baskin Robbins for ice cream. There were 31 flavors to choose from and they gave you samples. Everyone was through with their ice cream before I decided. For this EtB, let’s “sample” a verse from each book of the Bible listed. As God would have it, each verse that spoke to me just happens to be a way to deal with hard times.

Let’s start with Ecclesiastes 7:14. Enjoy prosperity while you can, but when hard times strike, realize that both come from God. Remember that nothing is certain in this life. God knows how much to give you to make you happy, and how much hardship to give you to keep you humble. In good times and bad, acknowledge that God has a plan.

Moving on to PSALM 46:1. As Christians, we know we need the hard times to become more like Christ. It’s never easy or fun to go through trials. My life raft is PSALM 46:1 – God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble. If you’re going down like the Titanic, you can’t count on a floating piece of door to save you = don’t count on the things of the world. Cling to God and His word in times of trouble.

Let’s close with 2 TIM 3:16. All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. Scripture corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. When we go through difficult times, use the Bible to see if you’ve strayed from His Word. Then follow scripture to get back on track.