"The Good Old Days"

S – Ps 77:5 – “I think of the good old days, long since ended.

O – The Jews had seen some great times, but at this time in the Bible, things are going bad, and they are asking, “Where is God?” I think we are just like them. It’s easy to praise God when things are good, but we seem to turn from praise to blaming God when things are bad. Jesus never promised us that things would always be good in our lives. But He promises to always be there. Things may change in our lives…. Our pastor may leave the church, the church loses members, we lose a loved one, we lose our job. And it’s easy to look back and say, “remember when things were good?” During these times we have to hold on to God and have faith. It is during these times where we usually see the most spiritual growth. These are the times when you will know just how important God is to your life.

A – During difficult times, draw closer to God

P – Father, help me to know that life is not perfect, but you are. Help me to remain faithful during difficult times.

"And They Feared God"

S – 1 Samuel 5:10 – “they cried out, ‘They are bringing the Ark of the God of Israel here to kill us too.’”

O – When the Philistines started to see God’s power, and they saw what He did in other cities, they were afraid. They did not worship God, but they knew He was real, and they knew what He could do.

A – We need to bring the word of God to the people so that He can do miracles in our city. People need to see what God can do. We need to make God real in our lives.

P – God, may people see my life and know that you are real. Help me to bring your word to our city.

"Can You Praise?"

S – Ps 64:10 – “And those who do right will praise Him.”

O – I have a hard time praising God sometimes. Not because of God, but because of me. I find myself ashamed of my actions. Satan will use my mistakes to tell me I’m not good enough to follow God. The best thing I can do is strive to follow Jesus. If I’m having a hard time with my spiritual life, it’s not anything God has done. There is something I need to re-evaluate in my life.

A – I need to live for Jesus. I’m the one who walks away. Jesus is always there.

P – Father, forgive me of my sins. Help me to do what is right in your eyes.