Calvary Chapel Fort Lauderdale Daily DevotionalSample

Praypare for troubleUnlike other religions, Christianity never shies away from the reality of trouble and trials in the world around us. It doesn't pretend they don't exist and are mere mirages of our imagination. In fact, it actually levels with us by drawing our attention to the existence of trials and deals with them head on. We see an excellent example of this in the opening words of Psalm Chapter 20, where David writes, "May the LORD answer you in the day of trouble." Notice that he clearly states there's trouble in this life, that there's a day of trouble, and that encountering it is inevitable. As much as we don't want to hear it, the fact is that trouble is coming-no matter how we position or posture to avoid it. It's important to recognize this because trouble, when seen in all of its inevitability, becomes a catalyst for our prayer life. If we don't appreciate our need for God's help, then we're less likely to ask for it. But when we're thoroughly convinced there's a day of trouble coming, our hearts find the necessary motivation to prepare for it by grabbing hold of God's presence in prayer. And when we turn to prayer in preparation for our troubles, there's no surer way to fortify and safeguard ourselves than through this mighty provision God has graced us with. Trouble is here, trouble is real, but equally so is prayer and the promise that the Lord will answer us. Keeper of our days, Author of our lives, give us a sober and steady mind that recognizes the certainty of trouble and the urgency to be people of prayer. Trouble, when seen in all of its inevitability, becomes a catalyst for our prayer life.Think About It... What does this passage reveal to me about God? What does this passage reveal to me about myself? Based on this, what changes do I need to make? What is my prayer for today?