When It All Goes South

There's an expression that says, "when it all goes south." Most of you know what that means but for the two of you who don't, it means: when it all falls apart. I've been thinking about recent events. I am called by God to pray for those who are in authority. So, we have problems in DC and so much more. The banking industry, the auto giants, credit card companies all in trouble. There's the fight about protecting our country from attacks, the economy and the loss of jobs all over the place. Now, to add to all of that, we have this Swine Flu thing going on!

I was talking with a fellow radio friend about this the other day. Out of nowhere she just asked, "Randy, what makes a person snap?" I didn't have one solid answer for her. I think there are many reasons. Here are just a few of them. One, they could already have a chemical imbalance, another is that the stress of everyday life just gets to them and they lose it, and thirdly, the enemy just finally takes over. Those are just a few of the things that can happen. I went on to mention to her in our conversation that I really don't know how people make it without God in their lives.

So, I want to end today on a positive note. Sure, there are terrible things that are going on. A person would have to be in a remote cave somewhere "not" to know that things are tough. What gets me through is two things. One, I serve a God who is bigger than all of the circumstances around me. Secondly, if I start to get troubled, I think back to all of God's past blessings in my life. He has never let me down! Sure, I have had some pretty rough days in my life. However, I cannot remember a day when I've ever been without food that God didn't supply for me. I have had shelter, food, water, friends, and so much more. Even the scriptures say that with food and clothing, be content! God has done far more than that for me.

Years ago I heard Charles Stanley speak on this very issue. He said that if a person places their security on their health, they can lose it. If they place their security in money, it can be wiped out. He gave several examples. However, he went on to say, if our faith is in the Lord, that is a security that will never go away. Sure, we are in troubled times, but God is still our refuge, a very present help in times of trouble. And, as Gordon Jensen penned it so long ago, "Lift up your heads, your redemption draweth nigh." So, when it all seems to go south, remember someday we'll all be headed in a new direction. And...that is above. Be well all.