"We put everything into the hands of God." - 2 Corinthians 1:9 TLB

I once heard a godly man say that when we are facing adversity, or we have a need, instead of wringing our hands and saying, "What am I going to do?" we should turn to God and say, "Lord, what are YOU going to do?" By doing this, we are taking our focus off of ourselves, and planting it firmly on God, where it belongs. The beauty of doing this is that it enables us to tap into the Lord's limitless resources, instead of making us dependent on our own feeble resources.

The apostle Paul knew the value of living his life in complete dependence upon the Lord. When he was in a tight spot, he never hesitated to turn to God for help. In Second Corinthians 1:8-10 (TLB), he wrote: "We were really crushed and overwhelmed, and feared we would never live through it. We felt we were doomed to die and saw how powerless we were to help ourselves; but that was good, for then we put everything into the hands of God, who alone could save us, for He can even raise the dead. And He did help us and saved us from a terrible death; yes, and we expect Him to do it again and again."

Scripture reveals that Paul was repeatedly rescued from seemingly impossible circumstances, because his reliance was always on his God. Contrary to the world's view, this attitude made him remarkably able and strong, rather than weak and helpless.

You may be facing some daunting circumstances of your own today that have you worried and fearful. I encourage you to begin seeking the Lord with an attitude of humble and hopeful anticipation, and ask Him, "Lord, what are YOU going to do?"

Prayer: Lord, when I am facing trouble and trials, help me to "put everything into Your hands," the way that Paul did. Teach me how to stand strong against fear and doubt by memorizing and declaring Your Word and promises. When I am tempted to focus on my own inadequacies and limitations, help me to readjust my focus and to keep my thoughts on You. Thank You that as I follow Paul's faith-filled example, I will experience the awesome peace, victory, and blessings that are my inheritance in Christ!

- J. M. Farro