Ask for God's Guidance Through Stressful Times
Q: I know I'm supposed to trust God for the future, but I'm having a hard time doing that right now. I lost my job a few months ago, and I've given up even praying about it because it doesn't seem to make any difference. Maybe you can encourage me somehow. - D.W.L.
A: I have seldom felt more strongly our need to pray for our world's leaders, as they seek to cope with the financial crisis that seems to have gripped our entire planet. The Bible urges us to pray "for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives" (1 Timothy 2:2).
Perhaps the most important thing I can tell you is that God knows all about your situation, and He wants to help you and encourage you during these difficult times. He cares what happens to you - and the reason is because He loves you (and your family also). If you can trust Him for your eternal salvation, don't you think you also can trust Him for your daily needs? The very first petition (or request) that Jesus taught His disciples to pray was this: "Give us this day our daily bread" (Matthew 6:11, KJV).
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Times of stress will either draw us closer to God, or they will make us turn away from Him. Don't stop praying, and don't lose sight of God and His love for you. Instead, ask God to draw you closer to Himself during these days. Make sure of your commitment to Christ, and then learn to walk with Him every day.
In addition, ask God to guide you. Perhaps He has a new job; perhaps He wants you to seek further education; perhaps He has entirely new plans. God has not abandoned you, and my prayer is that you will learn to trust Him during these difficult days.
