March 13, 1999, Saturday

What does a believer do when he is surrounded by troubles

and enemies in the world? What assistance is available to

the believer when he looks for advice and counsel? What

does God do to help the believer in much tribulation?

The Psalmist realized that God's peace was more powerful

than any of his enemies and he began to praise the Lord--

"So I will triumph over my enemies around me. With shouts

of joy I will offer sacrifices in His Temple; I will sing,

I will praise the Lord" (Psa 27:6). His confidence was in

God and His deliverance from all troubles and enemies that

were around him. God's peace surpassed the trouble!

Paul explained that the visible help available for believers

is accomplished by God's Plan of instruction and teaching---

"And God has appointed in the church first apostles, second

prophets, third teachers; then deeds of power, then gifts of

healing, forms of assistance, forms of leadership, various

kinds of tongues" (1Cor 12:28). Paul's directions were given

for assistance and instruction by the church leadership.

Lule tells us that the apostles' lives were in danger, but

the plot was discovered. To flee evil is not an unwise decision-

"And when a violent attempt was made by both the Gentiles and

Jews, with their rulers, to abuse and stone them, they became

aware of it and fled to Lystra and Derbe, cities of Lycaonia,

and to the surrounding region" (Acts 14:5-6). Many times God

makes us aware of the dangers that could hurt us. The apostles

were in much tribulation, but were delivered from it!

Let us remember Who is the God that is our peace. God's

Name is Jehová Shalom. He is the God that puts His peace

all around His people. He is the God that is helping us

learn His ways. He is meek and humble and makes us aware

that the fear of the Lord gives protection. He will soon

crush Satan under our feet and instructs us from all of

His teaching. Lift your hands to Him and Praise Him today

for the fact that He keeps us with in His peace!