Rise Again

Do not lie in wait like an outlaw against a righteous man’s house,do not raid his dwelling place;for though a righteous man falls seven times, he rises again,but the wicked are brought down by calamity.

Proverbs 24:15-16 (NIV)

This could be viewed from two angles. It’s first a warning, but it also includes an encouragement. Warning: if you see someone who is vulnerable or has fallen on hard times, don’t pounce on him or her. Don’t take advantage of anyone, especially a child of God. The Bible says that “the eyes of the LORD are on those who fear him, on those whose hope is his unfailing love” (Psalm 33:18, NIV). The selfish opportunist will be held accountable. The Lord sees and will eventually bring that person down.

But now for the encouragement. Dear sisters, many are going through hard times right now. Maybe you are. Maybe you’re out of a job, or your car is broken, or you’re losing your house. Although we wish that the Lord had promised us a life free of struggles and loss, he hasn’t. But he has promised that he will never, ever leave us or forsake us. He has promised us wisdom in the trials, strength in our weakness, and peace that passes all understanding when we pray.

Prayer; what a gift the Lord has given us, that we can pray. Would you stop and pray right now? Listen again to our proverb. “Though a righteous man [or woman], falls seven times, [they] rise again.” So humble yourself under the mighty hand of God, and He will lift you up. I know because I’ve been there.

Make It Personal . . . Live It Out!

When troubles push you down, there is nothing like standing on the promises of God. Hold tight to his words. Psalm 46:1-2 is a powerful promise to have written on your heart. Let it give you courage. Draw upon the comfort it brings. Let the words lift you up and give you hope!

“God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble. So we will not fear when earthquakes come and the mountains crumble into the sea.”

One Year Bible Reading

Isaiah 66:1-24; Philippians 3:4-21; Psalm 74:1-23; Proverbs 24:15-16