This is the testimony of a man who felt mistreated by God. It was so bad; he described it like a man stumbling along in darkness, a condition imposed upon him by God. He felt God had walled him in and there was no escape. He was alone and left out there with no one to help. The troubles he faced and his life adversities had caused him to become the laughingstock of his town. Wow, this guy had it tough. He could only describe his life as being surrounded with bitterness and darkness to the point of being physically sick.  And it was all God’s fault; at least that is how he felt. Ever feel like that? Life has kicked you in the teeth, sucked the wind out of you, and set you on your ear!  His many troubles left him depressed, discouraged, and defeated.

When one thing happens we can handle it. But sometimes life just isn’t fair. Instead of just the one thing, another disaster follows right on its heels, then another. When we think we are at the end of our rope and can handle no more; another whammy hits and we want to scream. Depression, anger and bitterness can set in if we are not careful. How can we negotiate life when the road is filled with one pot hole after another, blind curves and dead ends? The answer is not a new life, a new career, or a new spouse, but a new attitude.

The above testimony is from one called the weeping prophet. He was called such for his many afflictions, hardships and brokenness of heart. The cure for his depression wasn’t a different life, but a different attitude. Consider Lamentations3:18-24, “So I say, "My splendor is gone and all that I had hoped from the LORD."  I remember my affliction and my wandering, the bitterness and the gall.  I well remember them, and my soul is downcast within me.  Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope: Because of the LORD's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.  I say to myself, "The LORD is my portion; therefore I will wait for him."

Notice he can think about one of two things:

1. His troubles, verse 19, 20; or
2. God’s promises, verse 21.

He chose option two. Hope sprang forth despite his afflictions; because he focused on the many good things of God. He reminded himself that God’s compassion never fails and his faithfulness is as sure as the sun is to rise in the east.  He made it his decision to make God “his portion” and as a result his depression lifted, his faith was restored, and hope carried him on.

Do not let your circumstances carry you. They will treat you badly. Instead, put your hope in a God that is faithful and true in every circumstance. Then if life is good or bad, you will be steady and strong, rejoicing as you go.

This week we will be discussing the subject of anger, a message written and presented by Sharon Verishine. Anger is a powerful emotion and sometimes we have misplaced anger due to life circumstances. A proper understanding of anger and choosing to live on God’s promises will ensure your anger is used for good and is not destructive.

This weekend I will be in Cranbrook ministering at the Dwelling Place on Saturday night and Sunday morning.  If you happen to be in the area, join us. I will be sharing with the congregation on the “purpose of the Church”.

Fall Back Reminder!

It’s time once again to turn our clocks back 1 hour.  Remember to do this on Saturday night before you go to sleep.  If you forget, you will be blessed to arrive at church early J.

Haiti Arise

KCF is actively involved with supporting Haiti Arise.  Please keep them in prayer as this is active hurricane season for them. To find out more about Haiti Arise, click on the link. http://www.haitiarise.org/

S.H.A.R.E. Nelson

S.H.A.R.E. is accepting and receiving donations and new items are being put out for sale every day.  Come down and support the poor.  If you would like to volunteer at S.H.A.R.E. we currently have great ministry opportunities.  Call the store at 250.352.1222 or stop by the store to inquire.  Click on this link to check out S.H.A.R.E.’s new video! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0aZX9v7gxdM

Calendar of Events

• Church Membership Classes, KCF, 1pm on Nov 12, Nov 19 and Nov 26
• Set Clocks back 1 hour on Saturday night, Nov 4^th
• Community Connect Day, Saturday, Nov 18 at Central School Gym
• Bright Lights, Club for Kids Tuesdays at KCF, 3:30 – 5pm, Contact Doreen Reimer for details – 250.354.2077.
• Junior Teens, Ages 11-16.  Meet at KCF, Fridays from 4 – 5:30pm.  No cost.

Visit our website at http://www.kootenaychristianfellowship.com for all the news, sermons, and places to donate.

 Pastor Jim

 

November 2, 2017