Al Thomas: "REJECTING the HUMBUG in You for the JOY found in JESUS"

DURING THIS HOLIDAY SEASON, JESUS WANTS YOU TO RECEIVE A GIFT--the gift of "anxiety free" living. We all occasionally experience discouragement and fear, however, discouragement and fear should not be a stronghold in any believer's life. It will make you a "humbug." Here's the Biblical way to overcoming discouragement and fear in the midst of crazed shoppers:

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REACT

It's not what happens to us, but how we react to what happens. There was nothing you could do to the first century believers without adding to their joy. It didn't matter what happened to Paul, his reaction was usually the same--he would burst out in song (Acts 16:25) and consider his afflictions light (2 Corinthians 4:17). No, he didn't enjoy the act of suffering, but he learned how to react correctly. If it looked like he was going to die, he rejoiced in going to be with Jesus (Philippians 1:23). The martyrs who met their death were in joy and bliss, not when the lions tore their flesh or when the flames leaped, but in knowing where they were going.

Christianity spread rapidly because the early disciples were so full of the Spirit of Jesus (and His joy) that they converted many of their persecutors. You see, suffering without love is a tragedy. You are going to suffer in this life, but when people see you going though an earthly hell with a Heavenly joy, God is glorified. Some people make the mistake of waiting for things to change for the better before they start to be positive and look up, yet, often, God is simply waiting for us to righteously react to negative situations (Matthew 5:44; Romans 12:21) before He changes the circumstances. There is always more to suffering than meets the eye (Romans 8:18), often, it's an opportunity to demonstrate God's love.

RESIST

Remember, you do have someone who hates you (satan) and delights in you having those pity parties. Don't help him by hating yourself. God made you and He only makes good things (Jeremiah 29:11). Any thought or impression that tells you--"you are unloved, unworthy, or a failure"--is not from God. Satan steals joy by getting you to dwell on your weaknesses. When satan does this to you, simply tell him that you are sometimes weak, and then begin to break out in songs of praise. God loves it so much when we resist satan (that's what His Son did) that He draws near to us in the midst of the battle (James 4:7-8).

God wants us to become fighters (Ephesians 6:13; 2 Timothy 2:3). If you are going to be victorious (and partake of His joy), you can't just roll over and die. I know that's easier said than done, but there is no other way out. However, Jesus will help you to overcome and bring out the best in you.

RECEIVE

Walking in freedom from fear, discouragement and anxiety can only come through relationship with Jesus. Yes, you've heard that before. But the fact remains--if you are disobedient, walking in rebellion, lacking regular fellowship or, if you rarely come into His presence (private prayer), you can expect to feel like yesterday's garbage and be mistaken for "Scrooge." God is well aware of your weaknesses and frailties and will help you to overcome them.

James tells us, "Behold, we count them happy which endure. Ye have heard of the patience of Job, and have seen the end of the Lord; that the Lord is very pitiful, and of tender mercy" (James 5:11). I like the way the The Message Bible puts it, "You've heard, of course, of Job's staying power, and you know how God brought it all together for him at the end. That's because God cares, cares right down to the last detail."

Yes, He cares for you right down to the last, smallest detail. No matter how you feel or what mountain you face, God is bigger and stronger than all the junk you are now going through. He cares for you. Look, everyone has a relationship with themselves, good or bad. You are the only one (except God) who really knows you and can do something about your current situation. So stick that pasty face of yours in front of a mirror and talk to it (yes, I have done it). Tell that image of yours that you will rejoice (Philippians 4:4) because it's a commandment. Tell that face of yours that you are not going to allow circumstances to dictate how you feel anymore. Tell yourself that you will not allow fear to hinder your ability to serve God.

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Fear will keep you from obeying God, (and we know who wants us to live in fear). Even if a storm is brewing, or you are in the midst of one (Matthew 8:23-27), keep going. Feel like you're sinking? Reach out, Jesus is there (Matthew 14:25-33). Concerned about provision? Jesus has always taken faithful to care of us (Luke 12:27-32). Friend, you are NOT a humbug--satan is. Make satan frown (and God smile) and rejoice by faith.

This holiday season, don't be so preoccupied with yourself (a sure-fire recipe for discouragement), instead, get involved with helping others. It is the season of giving, you know. Before you get started, remember to take one little baby step at a time. Most of the time, we don't get out of a valley overnight, but you must get started. Remember, anybody can start something--but God is looking for finishers. And He'll be with you all the way.

My prayer for you is Philippians 4:6-7, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus."

God will bring you through--even in the madness of Wal-Mart--and that's a miracle.

Al Thomas
Celebrating His Life Ministries
Email: a.thomas@myactv.net

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