Standing Firm: Praying Through Trials

INTRODUCTION

Central Idea: In times of trials and tribulations, standing firm in our faith is crucial; through prayer, we can find peace and strength that surpasses all understanding, as we learn to trust God’s sovereignty and goodness.

KEY AREAS FOR DISCUSSION

Understanding Trials

The Power of Prayer in Trials

Practical Steps to Pray Through Trials

UNDERSTANDING TRIALS

Trial Defined

A test of faith in which you experience trouble or adversity.

If you have little faith then the effects of the trials that you experience will be detrimental to you soul. Whereas having great faith.

We must acknowledge the reality of trials - ESPECIALLY IN THE LIVE OF A FAITHFUL CHRISTIAN

James 1:2–4 ESV

Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.

John 16:33 ESV

I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”

Anyone who teaches or preaches the Jesus will make your immediate life worry free without any issues is not speaking the truth and is teaching a false doctrine

1 Peter 1:6–7 ESV

In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, so that the tested genuineness of your faith—more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire—may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.

THE POWER OF PRAYER IN TRIALS

We are called to pray

Philippians 4:6–7 ESV

do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Prayer is a source of peace

Philippians 4:7 ESV

And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Studies show an active faithful Christian tends to fair better psychologically. Less depressed

You guard you hearts when you operate on truth and not relying on feelings.

Colossians 4:2 ESV

Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving.

PRACTICAL STEPS TO PRAY THROUGH TRIALS

Bring your burdens to God

1 Peter 5:7 ESV

casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.

Pray without doubt. You may not have answers, but it is the height of arrogance to think your problems are too big for God to handle

James 1:5–9 (ESV)

If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind. For that person must not suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways. Let the lowly brother boast in his exaltation,

Have a daily Communion with God

Matthew 6:6 ESV

But when you pray, go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.