Praying Hands by Albrecht Durer
 

Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.
Psalm 20:7 NIV
 

     When you are in distress, I am your Vitality. When life crashes and you send out an SOS, I quickly respond to your desperation. I do not give you an attitude of paralyzing fear or immobilizing timidity—I embolden action, intensify compassion, and calm anxieties. Do not go to pieces when trouble comes—I hold you together. Discover the secret of surviving every situation—lean on Almighty God!
 

     When you are discouraged, I am your Valiancy. When the fight is fiercest, I am on the front line with you. With My support, you will not sink—you will soar high on eagle’s wings. You can be strong, not intimidated; brave-hearted, not cowardly; faith-full, not fearful; determined, not irresolute—all because of Me. There is a Higher Power on your side, fighting your battles for you—press on!
 

     When you are bothered by doubt, I am your Vision. Your devotion to Me will eventually be openly vindicated. Place your life on the altar of surrender, and I promise to remember your sacrifice and smile on your efforts in My cause. Detractors judge worship worthless, but unfolding developments will prove its worth. When time gives way to eternity and human governments are replaced by My throne, the wisdom of worship will be crystal clear to the entire universe. On the other side of trouble and sin and sadness—you will sing My praises, serve Me wholeheartedly, enjoy face-to-face communion, and reign with Me forever. So make a conscious effort to live a pure life.
 

     Lowell’s poem “The Present Crisis” eloquently expresses ultimate reality:

                                 Then to side with Truth is noble when we share her wretched crust,

                                 Ere her cause bring fame and profit, and ’tis prosperous to be just;

                                 Then it is the brave man chooses, while the coward stands aside,

                                 Doubting in his abject spirit, till his Lord is crucified,

                                 And the multitude make virtue of the faith they had denied.
 

     It may seem at times you are on the brink of defeat, but that will never happen, because I am your Victory. Life’s battles may occasionally make you weak-kneed, but you do not buckle under—stand tall! Military armed forces cannot stop evil fiends attacking your heart; cruise missiles and fighter jets will not help in this fight with the Devil. The sure formula for spiritual conquest is to earnestly seek My help. Include Me in your formula for living—and you are sure to win!
 

© Pastor Johnny R. Almond, Day 198 Gentle Whispers from Eternity