Matters of Faith: Never Forsaken

Rev. J_Loren RussellNEVER FORSAKEN!

Rev. J. Loren Russell, B.A., MDiv.

Philippians‬ ‭4:6‬ ‭(NKJV)

“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God”‬‬
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September 1, 2016 was the 39th anniversary of my father’s transition from life to eternity. I told the story and posted on my Facebook page how his departure challenged my life, taking me on a journey that would help me have an intimate relationship with the Father of all fathers. It was a story about God’s commitment to those who belong to Him, but it was also a tribute to my earthly father. For, without him, I would have no relationship with the Lord. My Dad was a man who was the rock of our family, the epitome of fatherhood; a man who loved his family; a man who stayed with and raised his family after the death of his beloved wife, a great provider, and a man who meant more to me than anyone else in the world. By all accounts, he was an extraordinary man.

What I was able to learn from his life and his death is that no matter how complicated, how challenging, how painful or how hopeless things seem, the Lord always provides a way out. In spite of being scared, anxious, confused, or fearful, without a clear plan or direction for life, unsure of what would become of family, relationships and/or circumstances, there is an assurance. Although he had to die, my Dad made sure that I knew that at the center of every struggle, there is the Comforter; there is the knowledge, there is the promise that the heavenly Father will be there. It’s true for me, and it’s true for you.

If I can make it plan; five years prior to my father’s death, my mother died. Yet, in the throes of an extended period of personal sorrow, I experienced the peace of God that surpassed all my understanding. Through Christ, He guarded my heart, regulated my mind and preserved my soul. I learned to trust God unconditionally.

Today, I know for sure that I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me! It doesn’t matter what the obstacle or the challenge, I know He will see me through! It’s a matter of faith.

I encourage you to never lose your faith in Christ. Don’t ever lose hope in His promise; He will never leave you nor forsake you. It might be dark today, but I guarantee you that the sun will come out tomorrow! You will never be forsaken. Let your requests be known to God!

Be Blessed!
Rev. J. Loren Russell is President/CEO of The JLR Company for Church Financial Strategy & Consulting; an associate minister at both Goodwill and The Greater Universal Baptist Churches in the Bronx; and creator & host of “Matters of Faith – The Radio Show” on Soul 1 Radio, Mondays 8:00 – 10:00 PM. Listen on the internet at Soul 1 Radio.

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