Welcome to “It’s Never Too Late: Uncovering the Magic of Writing After Sixty,” I’m Dr. Jimmie Aaron Kepler, Christian nonfiction author and poet. This is my writer’s log for Monday, July 10, 2023. Today, I’m writing about embracing life’s challenges as I look at how problems shape your life journey.
Introduction
Maybe, like me, you’re facing challenges in various aspects of your life. I’m dealing with health issues like trigger finger (see photo), irritable bowel syndrome, and pancreatitis. Plus, I’m sixty-nine years and nine months old. Father Time has found me and is working me over.
Some of these issues are my excuses for being slow in getting edits/rewrites completed.
Be it personal, professional, or spiritual, it’s important to recognize that life presents us with many opportunities for problem-solving.
How we respond to these obstacles determines whether they will defeat us or contribute to our personal growth.
In this article, we’ll explore how God uses problems to guide, examine, correct, protect, and perfect us, as supported by powerful verses from the Bible.
1. God Uses Problems to Direct You (Proverbs 20:30)
Sometimes we need to experience painful situations to prompt us to change our ways. The blows that wound us can cleanse away the evil within us.
“Blows that wound cleanse away evil; strokes make clean the innermost parts.” These challenges can act as guiding forces, redirecting us towards a better path.
Proverbs 20:30
2. God Uses Problems to Inspect You (James 1:2-3)
Faced with various troubles, we are called to embrace joy, knowing that these challenges test our faith and build patience within us.
“Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness.”
James 1:2-3
However, it’s important to exercise caution and avoid excessive self-analysis, which can lead to a detrimental “why me Lord syndrome.”
3. God Uses Problems to Correct You (Psalm 119:71-72)
Difficulties can often be the catalysts for necessary corrections in our lives.
“It is good for me that I was afflicted, that I might learn your statutes. The law of your mouth is better to me than thousands of gold and silver pieces.”
Psalm 119:71-72
These afflictions, in hindsight, may be the best things that could have happened to us, guiding us to pay attention to God’s teachings and guiding principles.
4. God Uses Problems to Protect You (Genesis 50:20)
When others intend to harm us, God can transform those negative intentions into something good. Joseph acknowledges this truth in Genesis 50:20.
“As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today.”
Genesis 50:20
God’s divine intervention can protect us from harm and transform our trials into blessings.
5. God Uses Problems to Perfect You (Romans 5:3-4)
Rather than discouraging us, problems can serve as opportunities for growth and character development.
Romans 5:3-4 teaches us to rejoice in our sufferings because they produce endurance, character, and hope.
“Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope.”
Romans 5:3-4 ESV
These challenges strengthen our faith, enabling us to trust God more deeply.
Conclusion
Problems, when approached with the right perspective, have the potential to shape our character. While comfort may be appealing, God is more interested in our character development.
Our relationship with God and our character are the only things we will carry into eternity. Therefore, let us embrace the challenges we face, knowing that God desires to bring about positive changes in our lives, allowing us to make a difference in this world.
Remember, problems are not roadblocks, but stepping stones on our journey towards personal growth and spiritual maturity.
Here’s how can know Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior and be sure heaven is your eternal home. Click the link to read my personal story of accepting Jesus –My Story.
Disclosure: I am an Amazon affiliate. If you purchase using the links in the article I receive a small commission.
Books: Click on BOOKS to see some of the books I’ve written or where I’ve been a contributor.
Here’s how can know Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior and be sure heaven is your eternal home. Click the link to read my personal story of accepting Jesus –My Story.
Disclosure: I am an Amazon affiliate. If you purchase using the links in the article I receive a small commission.
Books: Click on BOOKS to see some of the books I’ve written or where I’ve been a contributor.
Here’s how can know Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior and be sure heaven is your eternal home. Click the link to read my personal story of accepting Jesus –My Story.
Disclosure: I am an Amazon affiliate. If you purchase using the links in the article I receive a small commission.
Books: Click on BOOKS to see some of the books I’ve written or where I’ve been a contributor.
Here’s how can know Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior and be sure heaven is your eternal home. Click the link to read my personal story of accepting Jesus –My Story.
Disclosure: I am an Amazon affiliate. If you purchase using the links in the article I receive a small commission.
Books: Click on BOOKS to see some of the books I’ve written or where I’ve been a contributor.
Here’s how can know Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior and be sure heaven is your eternal home. Click the link to read my personal story of accepting Jesus –My Story.
Disclosure: I am an Amazon affiliate. If you purchase using the links in the article I receive a small commission.
Books: Click on BOOKS to see some of the books I’ve written or where I’ve been a contributor.
Good morning! It’s a stormy day in North Texas with high humidity and dark clouds, making it important to monitor the sky. The temperature at 8 AM is 72 F degrees, making it feel like summer already!
Texas Rangers Baseball
Speaking of summer, it’s also Major League Baseball season! As a member of the baseball generation, I grew up listening to games on the radio. Baseball is the sport I’ve followed the longest, with NASCAR (stock car racing) coming in at a close second. NASCAR is my favorite sport. I’m wearing my old-school Texas rangers ball cap in honor of baseball season starting.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
Yesterday, I had an MRI to check on a precancerous cyst in my pancreas. I get checked every six months, as early detection can make all the difference. While I’m claustrophobic, they sedated me with Xanax to keep me relaxed. The medication was great for the MRI, but it’s left my mind foggy and or feeling “chill” as the youngsters say.
Starbucks Coffee
Right now, I’m at my local Starbucks doing some writing before I head to get my allergy shots. After that, weather permitting, I plan to take a walk at Cottonwood Park in Richardson.
NASCAR and Kyle Busch
Oh, and let’s not forget about NASCAR! This weekend’s race is in Richmond, Virginia, and I’ll be rooting for #8 Kyle Busch and Richard Childress Racing.
Kyle Busch Driver Introductions Las Vegas 2023, Source: Kyle Busch
Grateful for Life
I’m grateful for each day of life. Leave it all in God’s hands is how I live.
Thanks Kris!
Thanks you Kris, for driving me to and from the MRI.
Here’s how can know Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior and be sure heaven is your eternal home. Click the link to read my personal story of accepting Jesus –My Story.
Disclosure: I am an Amazon affiliate. If you purchase using the links in the article I receive a small commission.
Books: Click on BOOKS to see some of the books I’ve written or where I’ve been a contributor.
Thou art my hiding place and my shield: I hope in thy word. Psalm 119:114 KJV
Bible Verse
“Thou art my hiding place and my shield: I hope in thy word.”
Psalm 119:114 (KJV)
My Story
Psalm 119:114 reads, “You are my hiding place and my shield; I hope in your word.” This verse is a powerful reminder that no matter how difficult our circumstances may be, we can find comfort and strength in God’s promises. One person who embodied this truth was my grandmother, who spent the last 30-plus years of her life bedridden because of rheumatoid arthritis.
My grandmother was a remarkable woman. She was gentle, and always put others before herself. Despite her physical limitations, she never lost her faith in God. She saw her bed as her hiding place and her shield, a place where she could find rest and peace during her pain.
I spent countless hours by my grandmother’s bedside reading to her from the Bible. Sharing stories from my day and just sitting with her in silence were part of my routine.
She always smiled on her face and encouraged me.
One day I was feeling down. I received a poor grade on a test. I felt like a failure.
My grandmother sensed my sadness and asked me what was wrong. I told her about my test, and she listened. Then she reminded me of Psalm 119:114.
“Child,” she said, “God is our hiding place and our shield. When we put our hope in His word, we can face anything that comes our way. Don’t worry about this test. Just do your best and trust in God’s plan for your life.”
Her words stuck with me, and I carried them with me through the years. Whenever I faced a difficult situation, I remembered my grandmother’s advice and turned to God for strength. Her faith was contagious, and it inspired me to deepen my relationship with God.
Despite her physical limitations, my grandmother never lost her sense of purpose. She used her time in bed to pray for others, read the Bible, and encourage those around her. She may not have been able to do much physically, but she had a profound impact on those who knew her.
In the end, my grandmother’s faith in God sustained her through the years of pain and suffering. She knew that her hope was not in her circumstances, but in God’s promises. Her life was a living testament to Psalm 119:114, and her legacy continues to inspire me to this day.
In conclusion, my grandmother’s life was a powerful example of the truth of Psalm 119:114. No matter what we may face in life, we can find hope and refuge in God’s word. May we all have the same faith and courage as my grandmother, and may we never forget that God is our hiding place and our shield.
Who wrote Psalm 119:114 and when was it written?
Psalm 119:114 is in the longest chapter in the Bible, Psalm 119, which comprises 176 verses. Many scholars attribute Psalm 119 to King David’s authorship.
Scholars believe Psalm 119 was written sometime between the 6th and 4th centuries BC, during the period of the Second Temple in Jerusalem. The rebuilding of the temple, the restoration of Jewish worship, and the return of exiled Jews to Jerusalem marked this period. The themes of obedience to God’s laws, the importance of prayer and meditation, and trust in God’s faithfulness, which are prominent in Psalm 119, were also central to the Jewish faith during this period. If David wrote the Psalm, he wrote it was written between 1010 BC to 970 BC.
What is the context of Psalm 119:114?
Psalm 119:114 says, “You are my hiding place and my shield; I hope in your word.” This verse is part of the longest chapter in the Book of Psalms, which is a poem comprising 176 verses, each focusing on the importance and beauty of God’s Word.
In this verse, the psalmist is expressing his trust in God and his reliance on God’s protection. The phrase “hiding place” suggests that the psalmist feels secure in God’s presence, and the mention of a shield emphasizes God’s role in protecting the psalmist from harm.
The psalmist also expresses his hope in God’s word, showing that he believes God’s promises and teachings will guide him through life and give him strength to face whatever challenges come his way.
Overall, Psalm 119:114 highlights the psalmist’s deep faith in God and his recognition of God’s power to provide safety, protection, and guidance in all aspects of life.
What is the meaning of Psalm 119:114?
Psalm 119:114 is part of the longest chapter in the Book of Psalms, which is a poem or song attributed to King David. The verse reads:
“You are my hiding place and my shield; I hope in your word.”
In this verse, the psalmist is expressing his trust and reliance on God as his protector and the source of comfort. The metaphor of God as a hiding place suggests that the psalmist is seeking refuge from something or someone that is threatening him. We also see God as a shield, providing physical and spiritual protection from harm.
The second half of the verse expresses the psalmist’s faith in God’s promises and his word. The psalmist has placed his hope in God’s word, which can mean both the written word of Scripture and God’s spoken promises. This shows that the psalmist has a deep faith in God and believes that God will fulfill his promises and protect him.
Overall, Psalm 119:114 states trust and faith in God’s protection and promises. It is a reminder that God is a refuge and source of strength for those who seek him.
What does “Thou art my hiding place and my shield: I hope in thy word.” mean?
The metaphor of a hiding place and shield suggests that the psalmist sees God as a place of safety and security, where he can go to find shelter and protection from the dangers and troubles of the world.
What does “I hope in thy word.” mean?
The psalmist also declares his hope in God’s word. This may refer to the teachings and commands of God, which are seen as a guide for living a righteous life. By trusting in God’s word, the psalmist believes that he can find the wisdom, strength, and encouragement he needs to face the challenges of life.
What is the difference in biblical translations of Psalm 119:114(KJV, NIV & ESV)
Psalm 119:114KJV biblical translation says:
Thou art my hiding place and my shield: I hope in thy word.
Psalm 119:114NIV biblical translation says:
You are my refuge and my shield; I have put my hope in your word.
Psalm 119:114ESV biblical translation says:
You are my hiding place and my shield; I hope in your word.
How does Psalm 119:114 give encouragement?
Psalm 119:114 says, “You are my hiding place and my shield; I hope in your word.” This verse gives encouragement by reminding us that God is our refuge and protection, and that we can trust in His word.
In times of trouble or uncertainty, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or helpless. This verse assures us we can turn to God for safety and security. He is our hiding place, a haven where we can find comfort and rest.
The verse also mentions that God is our shield, which implies that He will protect us from harm. It reminds us we are not alone in our struggles, and that we have a loving God who is watching over us.
Last, the verse concludes by emphasizing the hope. By placing our hope in God’s word, we can find strength and courage to face whatever challenges come our way. This verse is a powerful reminder that no matter what we face in life, we can find encouragement and hope in God.
How can I apply Psalm 119:114 to my life?
Here are a few ways you can apply this verse to your life:
Find refuge in God: When you are going through difficult times, turn to God for refuge. He is a safe place where you can find comfort and peace. Strengthen your faith and hope by reading His word and meditating on His promises.
Trust in God’s word: God’s word is a source of truth and wisdom, and it is trustworthy. When you face challenges or uncertainties, turn to His word for guidance and direction. Read and studying the Bible, and let it shape your thinking and decision-making.
Put your hope in God: In a world that is often filled with disappointment and uncertainty, it’s easy to lose hope. But when we put our hope in God, we know that He will never let us down. He is a faithful God who cares for us and is always working for our good.
By applying these principles to your life, you can experience the peace and protection that comes from placing your trust and hope in God’s word.
A model or example prayer using Psalm 119:114
Here’s a model prayer using Psalm 119:114:
Dear God,
I come before you today grateful for your unchanging love and steadfast presence in my life. In this world, my vulnerability to many troubles and difficulties can overwhelm me. But I find my refuge in you, my Lord, who is my shield and my protector.
Thank you for the assurance you give me in Psalm 119:114, which says, “You are my hiding place and my shield; I hope in your word.” Today, I choose to put my trust in you and your promises. I know you are faithful and your word is true.
As I face the challenges that lie ahead, I pray you will continue to be my hiding place and my shield. May your word guide me and give me the strength and courage I need to face each day with hope and confidence.
Thank you for your unfailing love and your constant presence in my life. I pray all these things in the name of Jesus Christ, my Lord and Savior.
Amen.
Conclusion
Accepting Christ as Savior is an act of faith and trust. We need the same type of trust to believe in the truths found in God’s word. It is through this trust that we can have hope and God can be our hiding place. God is a place of refuge. In our place of refuge, he acts as our shield to protect us from life’s difficulties.The verse expresses a deep sense of faith and dependence on God, as well as a belief in the power of his Word to guide and sustain the believer.
Today’s article is from the forthcoming book: “Hope: How to Have Hope During Times of Hardship | The Bible Speaks to Life Issues, Book Three” by Jimmie Aaron Kepler, Ed.D. from Poetry and Prayer Press (c) 2023
How to Become a Christian
Here’s how can know Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior and be sure heaven is your eternal home. Click the link to read my personal story of accepting Jesus –My Story.
Disclosure: I am an Amazon affiliate. If you purchase using the links in the article I receive a small commission.
Books: Click on BOOKS to see some of the books I’ve written or where I’ve been a contributor.
