How to Sincerely Trust God when Sorrow Fills Your Heart 

because I have said these things to you, sorrow has filled your heart. …you will be sorrowful, but your sorrow will be turned into joy.  John 16:6,20 NKJV 

Jesus had just told His apostles that He was going away.  He knew their hearts were filled with great sorrow.  They did not fully understand.  Besides, their minds could not comprehend nor hear the full truth of the matter.  So, He told them.  “When I leave the Comforter will come. He will teach you all you need to know.”  So, what about you when sorrow fills your heart?  What are you to do?  Or I?  There is sorrow all around us and within.  We look at the world, the wars, the bitterness, and the pain.  Deep inside our hearts are filled with great, grievous sorrow.  Yet, the Bible tells us to rejoice in Jesus Christ.  How? When all around and within we see pain.  When sorrow fills Your Heart, what are you supposed to do?  How do you sincerely trust God when all you see, and feel is sorrow? 

In Psalm 39, David determined to keep silent.  After all, if he spoke all of what he felt it could be seen as a lack of faith.  Indeed, it could bring dishonor to God.  He certainly did not want that.  God might see it as sin.  Furthermore, those who heard his wails of sorrow and grief would be convinced God had failed David.  Therefore, God could not be trusted. Or so they would think.  For that reason, he kept silent. 

I said, “I will guard my ways, 

Lest I sin with my tongue; 

I will restrain my mouth with a muzzle, 

While the wicked are before me.” 

I was mute with silence, 

I held my peace even from good;  Psalm 39:1-2 (NKJV) 

So, when sorrow fills your heart, are you to just keep it bottled up within to avoid sin? Let us see what happened next for David. 

When Sorrow Fills Your Heart and You Are Silent 

my sorrow was stirred up. 

My heart was hot within me; 

While I was musing, the fire burned. 

Then I spoke with my tongue: 

 “Lord, make me to know my end, 

And what is the measure of my days, 

That I may know how frail I am. 

Indeed, You have made my days as handbreadths, 

And my age is as nothing before You; 

Certainly every man at his best state is but vapor. Selah  Psalm 39:2-5 NKJV 

Holding it all in when sorrow fills your heart is not good either.  It grew within David until he fully despaired of life.  Just please tell me when I am going to die.  Have you ever been there?  I have.  “Lord, I am tired.  It has been a long journey.  Are you taking me home?”  That was my cry when facing grave illness and sorrow.  Where was I to find the faith to sincerely trust God amid all the pain and sorrow of life?  How do you step forward? 

Well, first as David did, you take it to God.  You cannot hide your sorrow from He who created you and loves you.  When sorrow fills your heart pour out your heart to Him.   

Second, When Sorrow fills Your heart confess all your sins.  

Those sins that are known and those that are unknown.  Ask forgiveness.  Often, in ignorance we have marched on in life not recognizing the acts of pride and arrogance driving our own lives.  We tend to overlook our own failures.  While clearly seeing the failures of others.  How often has it been a lack of faith that drove us to despair?  David next recognized that whatever came into his life came from God.  Therefore, it may have been God’s hand of correction reaching forth. 

And now, Lord, what do I wait for? 

My hope is in You. 

Deliver me from all my transgressions; 

Do not make me the reproach of the foolish. 

I was mute, I did not open my mouth, 

Because it was You who did it.    

Psalm 39: 7-9 (NKJV) 

Remove thy stroke away from me: I am consumed by the blow of thine hand. Psalm 39:10 KJV 

With rebukes You punish a person for wrongdoing; 

You consume like a moth what is precious to him; 

Certainly all mankind is mere breath! Selah 

 “Hear my prayer, Lord, and listen to my cry for help; 

Do not be silent to my tears; 

For I am a stranger with You, 

One who lives abroad, like all my fathers. Psalm 39:11-12 NASB 

O spare me, that I may recover strength, before I go hence, and be no more. Psalm 39:13 KVJ 

What began as a bitter complaint against God for the depths of His sorrow, now became a plea for greater understanding.  The plea of David transformed into his recognizing his own transgression leading to a separation from the full depth of God’s spirit.  When we are in full communion with Him, sorrow cannot fully consume us.  Instead, we recognize that underneath it all is God’s Sovereign Hand guiding us every step of the way.   

When Sorrow Fills Your Heart, Wait 

Psalm 40 follows up when Psalm 39 ended.   

I waited patiently for the Lord; 

And He reached down to me and heard my cry. 

He brought me up out of the pit of destruction, out of the mud; 

And He set my feet on a rock, making my footsteps firm. 

He put a new song in my mouth, a song of praise to our God; 

Many will see and fear 

And will trust in the Lord. 

 How blessed is the man who has made the Lord his trust, 

And has not turned to the [c]proud, nor to those who become involved in falsehood. 

Many, Lord my God, are the wonders which You have done, 

And Your thoughts toward us; 

There is no one to compare with You. 

If I would declare and speak of them, 

They would be too numerous to count.  Psalm 40:1-5 

Study His Word, When Sorrow Fills Your Heart 

David also knew that relief came in studying His word.  And then, instead of silence preach His word to all of whom you meet.  Sing of His wonder.  To do that you must hide His word in your heart.   

Then I said, “Behold, I have come; 

It is written of me in the scroll of the book. 

I delight to do Your will, my God; 

Your Law is within my heart.” 

 I have proclaimed good news of righteousness in the great congregation; 

Behold, I will not restrain my lips, 

Lord, You know. 

I have not hidden Your righteousness within my heart; 

I have spoken of Your faithfulness and Your salvation; 

I have not concealed Your mercy and Your truth from the great congregation. 

You, Lord, will not withhold Your compassion from me; 

Your mercy and Your truth will continually watch over me.  Psalm 40:7-11 NASB 

Does that mean all the original circumstances go away?  

 No!  But how you see them changes.   

For evils beyond number have surrounded me; 

My guilty deeds have overtaken me, so that I am not able to see; 

They are more numerous than the hairs of my head, 

And my heart has failed me. 

 Be pleased, Lord, to rescue me; 

Hurry, Lord, to help me. 

May those be ashamed and humiliated together 

Who seek my life to destroy it; 

May those be turned back and dishonored 

Who delight in my hurt. 

May those be appalled because of their shame 

Who say to me, “Aha, aha!” 

May all who seek You rejoice and be glad in You; 

May those who love Your salvation continually say, 

“The Lord be exalted!” But I am afflicted and needy; 

May the Lord be mindful of me. 

You are my help and my savior; 

Do not delay, my God.  Psalm 40:12-17  NASB 

Now, in humility David sees that God is His answer and hope.  He is his Savior and his help when overwhelmed with sorrow.  He is your hope also when Sorrow fills Your Heart.   

When Sorrow Fills Your Heart Seek God as the Fountain of Living Water 

Just as you seek for a cool refreshing drink of water in a dry and thirsty land, seek the fountain of living water.  Jesus is that fountain.   

As the deer pants for the water brooks, 

So my soul pants for You, God. 

My soul thirsts for God, for the living God; 

When shall I come and appear before God? 

My tears have been my food day and night, 

While they say to me all day long, “Where is your God?” 

I remember these things and pour out my soul within me. 

For I used to go over with the multitude and walk them to the house of God, 

With a voice of joy and thanksgiving, a multitude celebrating a festival. 

Why are in despair, my soul? 

And why are you restless within me? 

Wait for God, for I will again praise Him 

For the help of His presence, my God.  Psalm 42:1-5 NASB 

Yes, the sorrows of this world, leave us parched.  But He is the fresh brook of living water we need.  Preach it to yourself every day.    Remember the depth of grace you have been given.  I must remember that in truth, I do not deserve the joy He gives me.  Instead, I deserve the wrath He took for me on the cross.   All I have has been an act of His grace toward me.  So, what have I to worry and fret about?  His light will guide me.  

Send out Your light and Your truth, they shall lead me; 

They shall bring me to Your holy hill 

And to Your dwelling places. 

Then I will go to the altar of God, 

To God my exceeding joy; 

And I will praise You on the lyre, God, my God.  Psalm 43: 3-4 NASB 

He is my joy. 

So, to recap, when sorrow fills your heart: 

  1. Do not moan and groan to the world.  Nor go about with a sour face. And do not go about with a fake smile either. 
  1. Call upon God who is your joy.  Set aside time alone with Him. 
  1. Tell Him all you feel and ask He open your eyes to know His way 
  1. Read the word of God, seek His will 
  1. Ask for forgiveness of your known sin and knowledge of your unknown sin before Him.  He will reveal to you all you need to restore your joy in Him. 
  1. Preach the truth to yourself and others.  Use your past sorrows to tell others of His faithfulness through it all. 
  1. Seek Him as a deer searching for fresh water in a dry and parched land.  He will provide all you need.  Only He can give you true joy.   

If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you. 

 Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples. 

 As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love. 

  If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in his love. 

 These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.  John 15:7-11 KJV   

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD? He is our only Hope in Life and Death! Our Joy is found in Him.

Therefore if you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord: I urge you today. Go to my page titled How to Be Saved by clicking on this link. There is nothing more important than this; because He is the way, the truth and the life. Therefore, I urge you to seek Him today.

For Prayer or Comments

If you have a prayer request feel free to email me by clicking here

Furthermore, if you would like to share your story or thoughts, you can comment here

Previous TWO Posts

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2025

Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. Furthermore, I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned except for my own books. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Please note: This Post only has quotes from the KJV Bible.

BSB (BEREAN STUDY BIBLE)

The Berean Bible and Majority Bible texts are officially dedicated to the public domain as of April 30, 2023.

New King James Version (NKJV)Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

New American Standard Bible (NASB)New American Standard Bible®, Copyright © 1960, 1971, 1977, 1995, 2020 by The Lockman Foundation. All rights reserved.

New English Translation (NET)NET Bible® copyright ©1996-2017 by Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. http://netbible.com All rights reserved.

Amplified Bible (AMP)Copyright © 2015 by The Lockman Foundation, La Habra, CA 90631. All rights reserved.

English Standard Version (ESV)

The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. ESV® Text Edition: 2016. Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.

Photo licensed from goodsalt.com

The Almighty Justice of God Can Never Be Negated by His Grace Why?

the word of the Lord is right; and all his works are done in truth. He loveth righteousness and judgment: the earth is full of the goodness of the Lord. By the word of the Lord were the heavens made; and all the host of them by the breath of his mouth.   

He gathereth the waters of the sea together as an heap: he layeth up the depth in storehouses. Let all the earth fear the Lord: let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of him.     For he spake, and it was done; he commanded, and it stood fast. The Lord bringeth the counsel of the heathen to nought: he maketh the devices of the people of none effect.  

The counsel of the Lord standeth forever, the thoughts of his heart to all generations.  Behold, the eye of the Lord is upon them that fear him, upon them that hope in his mercy; To deliver their soul from death, and to keep them alive in famine.  Our soul waiteth for the Lord: he is our help and our shield.   For our heart shall rejoice in him, because we have trusted in his holy name.   Let thy mercy, O Lord, be upon us, according as we hope in thee.    

Psalm 33:4-11, 18-22

Sometimes we get so caught up in telling the world about the absolute Grace and Love of God, we forget to tell them of His Almighty Justice.  His Holiness, Righteousness are equally as real a part of His Being as His love, grace and Mercy.  There cannot be one without the other.  That is what He demonstrates to us.  Furthermore, we must never forget His Grace and Mercy are magnified; because of His justice.  One cannot exist without the other being equally magnified.  This thought came even more evident to mind while I was reading Exodus this week. 

God had miraculously led the Children of Israel from Egypt.  Now at Mount Sinai they stood.  And God spoke to Moses to prepare the people to meet with Him. 

All Brought to Hear the Voice of Almighty Justice 

And Moses went up to God, and the Lord called to him from the mountain, saying, “Thus you shall say to the house of Jacob, and tell the children of Israel:  ‘You have seen what I did to the Egyptians, and how I bore you on eagles’ wings and brought you to Myself.  Now therefore, if you will indeed obey My voice and keep My covenant, then you shall be a special treasure to Me above all people; for all the earth is Mine. And you shall be to Me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.’ These are the words which you shall speak to the children of Israel.” 

 So Moses came and called for the elders of the people, and laid before them all these words which the Lord commanded him. Then all the people answered together and said, “All that the Lord has spoken we will do.” So Moses brought back the words of the people to the Lord. 9 And the Lord said to Moses, “Behold, I come to you in the thick cloud, that the people may hear when I speak with you, and believe you forever.” Exodus 19 3-9 (NKJV) 

Therefore, all the people prepared with great anticipation to hear from God. 

And So, the People Heard God’s Voice  

God, Almighty Justice descended on Mount Sinai 

Then it came to pass on the third day, in the morning, that there were thunderings and lightnings, and a thick cloud on the mountain; and the sound of the trumpet was very loud, so that all the people who were in the camp trembled.  And Moses brought the people out of the camp to meet with God, and they stood at the foot of the mountain.  

Now Mount Sinai was completely in smoke, because the Lord descended upon it in fire. Its smoke ascended like the smoke of a furnace, and the whole mountain quaked greatly.  And when the blast of the trumpet sounded long and became louder and louder, Moses spoke, and God answered him by voice. Then the Lord came down upon Mount Sinai, on the top of the mountain. And the Lord called Moses to the top of the mountain, and Moses went up.  

AND GOD SPOKE ALL THESE WORDS, SAYING: 

“I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage. “You shall have no other gods before Me. “You shall not make for yourself a carved image—any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth; you shall not bow down to them nor serve them. For I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children to the third and fourth generations of those who hate Me,  but showing mercy to thousands, to those who love Me and keep My commandments. 

 Exodus 19:16-20: 20:1-6 NKJV 

Imagine this:  they all could hear His Voice.   All the people saw the majestic display of Power descending upon the mountain top.  His fiery Glory on Display for all to see.  To this day the top of Mount Sinai remains blackened and burnt despite not being a volcanic mountain.   

A Covenant of the People with the God of Almighty Justice 

God spoke.  The people heard as the law was recorded in Exodus 20-23.  After this 

all the people answered with one voice and said, “All the words which the Lord has spoken we will do!”  And Moses wrote down all the words of the Lord. Then he got up early in the morning and built an altar at the foot of the mountain with twelve memorial stones for the twelve tribes of Israel. And he sent young men of the sons of Israel, and they offered burnt offerings and sacrificed bulls as peace offerings to the Lord.  

 Moses took half of the blood and put it in basins, and the other half of the blood he sprinkled on the altar. Then he took the Book of the Covenant and read it as the people listened; and they said, “All that the Lord has spoken we will do, and we will be obedient!” So, Moses took the blood and sprinkled it on the people, and said, “Behold the blood of the covenant, which the Lord has made with you in accordance with all these words.”  Exodus 24:  3-8 (NASB) 

They heard the thunderous voice of Almighty Justice and bowed before it.  As a nation, all accepted God’s covenant to be their God.  With their own words they agreed to worship no other God and to not make any idols to worship.  Yet, 

The Leaders Saw the Magnificent Beauty of God’s Love and Grace 

Then Moses went up with Aaron, Nadab and Abihu, and seventy of the elders of Israel, and they saw the God of Israel; and under His feet there appeared to be a pavement of sapphire,as clear as the sky itself. Yet He did not reach out with His hand against the nobles of the sons of Israel; and they saw God, and they ate and drank.  Exodus 24:9-11 (NASB) 

This scene is best described and explained by Charles John Ellicott in his extensive Biblical Commentary known as Ellicott’s Commentary.   

Then went up.—According to the ordinary ideas of the time, the ratification of the covenant was now complete, and nothing more was needed. It pleased God, however, to terminate the whole transaction by a closing scene of extraordinary grandeur, beauty, and spiritual significance. A sacrifice implied a sacrificial meal (Exodus 18:12). Moses understood that God, by summoning Aaron, Nadab, Abihu, and seventy of the elders into the mount (Exodus 24:1), had intended the sacrificial meal to be held there; and accordingly, as soon as he had sprinkled the people, ascended Sinai with the persons summoned, and had the feast prepared. A sacrificial meal was always regarded as a religious act—an act done “before God” (Exodus 18:12), involving communion with Him. God willed now to signalise this sacrificial feast above all others by making His presence not only felt but seen. As Moses, Aaron with his two sons, and the elders were engaged in the feast (Exodus 24:11), a vision of marvellous splendour broke upon them. “They saw the God of Israel” (Exodus 24:10). God showed Himself to them—not, as before, amid thunders and lightnings, and a thick cloud, and fire, and smoke, and earthquake (Exodus 19:16; Exodus 19:18), but in His loveliness (Song of Solomon 5:16) and His beauty, standing on pellucid sapphire, blue as the blue of heaven. They “saw God,” and were neither hurt nor even terrified; they could, while seeing Him, still eat and drink—they felt themselves like guests at His board, as if He were banqueting with them. So was impressed upon them the mild and sweet relation into which they were brought towards God by covenant—a covenant made, and not yet infringed. The gentle, lovely, attractive side of God’s character was shewn to them, instead of the awful and alarming one; and they were taught to look forward to a final state of bliss, in which God’s covenanted servants would dwell in His presence continually.  

 They saw the God of Israel.—Probably, in human form, as Isaiah saw Him (Isaiah 6:1-5), and Ezekiel (Ezekiel 1:26), and even Nebuchadnezzar (Daniel 3:25). It is not of this appearance that Moses says: “Ye saw no similitude” (Deuteronomy 4:12). The appearance which they saw had “feet.” 

Charles John Ellicott1 

1 https://biblehub.com/commentaries/ellicott/exodus/24.htm,  Accessed 5/25/2025 

What a Wondrous Thought 

Imagine this.  All that is described is the wondrous beauty of the floor beneath His feet.  Yet, there was peace, tranquility, love and grace that filled that space.  There it was they dined with God.  Yet, after this was all complete, Moses along with Joshua ascended further up the mountain. God would give all His instructions to build a tabernacle.  Every minute detail representing the true tabernacle which would be Christ.  All symbolic of He who would bring the new covenant. 

How was it after seeing all this Aaron would allow the children of Israel to convince Him to build the golden calf for them to worship?  Furthermore, why did the 70 elders and the sons of Aaron not stop this foolish rebellion against God’s covenant of grace?  These had seen both the fiery almighty justice of God.  Furthermore, they had witnessed the miracles in Egypt and the desert.  Even more, they had felt the rapturous beauty of God’s loving grace and mercy.  How could they? 

And How Can WE?

We, who now have known of the wondrous grace purchased by Jesus on the cross?  Knowing the Almighty Justice of God. The full weight of His wrath against sin was poured out on His own son. Do not forget the price paid to maintain His Almighty Justice. How can we think it not be a major part of who He is. He did that so we might be called His sons and daughters.  His almighty justice can not be compromised without it diminishing His Love and Grace. All His attributes are equally a part of His Glory. We, who know Him as Lord and Savior, have tasted the wondrous sweetness of His grace, love, and mercy.  Having watched the miracles of His sweet grace toward us, as He has wooed us ever so gently to be more like Jesus.   

Romans 5 Reminds us: 

Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we also have obtained our introduction by faith into this grace in which we stand; and we celebrate in hope of the glory of God.  And not only this, but we also celebrate in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance;  and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope;  and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us. 

  For while we were still helpless, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. For one will hardly die for a righteous person; though perhaps for the good person someone would even dare to die.  But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we shall be saved from the wrath of God through Him.  Romans 5:1-9 NASB 

Because of that: 

There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has made me free from the law of sin and death.  Romans 8:1-2 (NKJV) 

Furthermore, I rest assured that not even I can separate me from His love. 

Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.  Romans 8: 37-39 NKJV 

For that reason I: 

know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brethren.  Moreover whom He predestined, these He also called; whom He called, these He also justified; and whom He justified, these He also glorified.  Romans 8: 28-30 NKJV 

So, Why Doesn’t the Grace of God Negate His Almighty Justice? 

His love, grace, and mercy cannot be known without His Justice as well.  How would I know of His Grace were I never aware of His justice?  If He then allowed me to chase after every evil thing, could that be love?  He knows that I would continue to destroy my life in so many ways if left to my own volition.  Therefore, His justice in my life draws me back to His side, teaching me faithfulness.   

His justice in the world is needed desperately as we pray for His return.  Yet it is His love and grace that waits.   He tarries only while going after that one last lost sheep to be saved during this current church age.  Once the bride of Christ is completed, He will return.  Then, the tribulation age will begin.  There will be many saved during that time.  They are the martyrs.   

For further information go to my post from January 2023. 

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD? He is our only Hope in Life and Death! Our Joy is found in Him.

Therefore if you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord: I urge you today. Go to my page titled How to Be Saved by clicking on this link. There is nothing more important than this; because He is the way, the truth and the life. Therefore, I urge you to seek Him today.

For Prayer or Comments

If you have a prayer request feel free to email me by clicking here

Furthermore, if you would like to share your story or thoughts, you can comment here

Previous Post

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2025

Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. Furthermore, I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned except for my own books. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Please note: This Post only has quotes from the KJV Bible.

BSB (BEREAN STUDY BIBLE)

The Berean Bible and Majority Bible texts are officially dedicated to the public domain as of April 30, 2023.

New King James Version (NKJV)Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

New American Standard Bible (NASB)New American Standard Bible®, Copyright © 1960, 1971, 1977, 1995, 2020 by The Lockman Foundation. All rights reserved.

New English Translation (NET)NET Bible® copyright ©1996-2017 by Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. http://netbible.com All rights reserved.

Amplified Bible (AMP)Copyright © 2015 by The Lockman Foundation, La Habra, CA 90631. All rights reserved.

English Standard Version (ESV)

The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. ESV® Text Edition: 2016. Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.

Photo licensed from goodsalt.com

Do You Really Desire to Abide in the All-Powerful Compassionate Jesus? 

If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you. Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so, shall ye be my disciples.  As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love. If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in his love. These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.  John 15:7-11 

Last week we looked at the Lord is our Rock.  In Him we can trust.  Our salvation is not based on our performance.  He is the foundation of our salvation.  The All-Powerful Compassionate Jesus bids us to abide in Him.  There we can find rest, comfort, freedom from fear and strength.  His surging power within us fills us to the overflowing with love, strength and wisdom when we abide in Him.   

Friday was a very busy day.  I went to multiple places with meetings.  Some very refreshing, some raising a lot of questions, tough questions and no true answer.  I needed God’s wisdom to guide my recommendations to each of my sons.  As one I had much to relate, and the other had called with a problem that appeared nearly impossible to solve.  Then a note from someone reporting a major problem due to the inconsideration of a person.  As the day ended, body and mind tired, I whispered this prayer.   

“God, you are the God of the Impossible.  Omnipotent, omniscient, all wise God only you can provide the light, the strength, and the wisdom to guide my every thought and decision.” 

 Amazing I awoke then Saturday morning with every question answered.  Oh, certainly there are steps to take.  But what looked impossible Friday night, suddenly had a way opened to march forward.  That is abiding in faith in the All-Powerful Compassionate Jesus.  He fills you with joy, strength, and hope.  Even in what appears impossible, He is the God of Possible.   

 For all the promises of God in Him (Jesus Christ) are yea, and in Him Amen, unto the glory of God by us. 2 Corinthians 20 

Wisdom is one of those things that He has promised to all who ask.  

But How Do We Abide in the All-Powerful Compassionate Jesus 

Perhaps that is the biggest question.  Yet, the Bible never fails to give the answers. Therefore, the key is just as Jesus said, “If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.” 

His words cannot abide in me unless I am continuously reaching out to read them and study them.  I need them to be written on my heart.  But I do believe Psalms 119 4-16 gives us further insight as well.  Note 7 steps necessary to abiding in His word 

4Thou hast commanded us to keep thy precepts diligently. 5O that my ways were directed to keep thy statutes! 6Then shall I not be ashamed, when I have respect unto all thy commandments. 7 I will praise thee with uprightness of heart, when I shall have learned thy righteous judgments. 8I will keep thy statutes: O forsake me not utterly.  

9Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed thereto according to thy word.  10With my whole heart have I sought thee: O let me not wander from thy commandments. 11Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against Thee. 12Blessed art thou, O Lord: teach me thy statutes. 13 With my lips have I declared all the judgments of thy mouth. 14I have rejoiced in the way of thy testimonies, as much as in all riches. 15I will meditate in thy precepts and have respect unto thy ways. 16 I will delight myself in thy statutes: I will not forget thy word. 

7 Steps necessary to Abide in His Word found in Psalm 119:4-16  

#1 Desire  

to keep God’s precepts (verse 5 and verse 10).  This burning desire to know and to keep His commandments comes from a heart who knows the sweetness of His amazing Grace.  This is a heart who has accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.  If you truly remember the day He saved you from your sin, then how can you not have that desire.   

You may have allowed the flames to diminish over time due to neglect. But if you ever asked Him into your heart by faith in Jesus Christ finished work on the cross, the flames cannot be distinguished.  Fan those ashes back into burning flames.  Bow before Him and ask repentance for your neglect of His Word and His Love toward you. Plead as did David in Psalm 51, restore to me the joy of my salvation.  If you do not know Him as Lord and Savior, it begins there.  He paid the price for all your sins, if only you would accept His gift of salvation.  He is the only way, the truth and the life.  Accept Him today.   

#2 Read  The Scripture

It Tells Us of the All-Powerful Compassionate Jesus 

Therefore, read His word every day.  Do not neglect this.  How can you start a day without Him first?  Even on the busiest of days take time to read a verse or a psalm.  Let that moment sink in.  3 to 5 minutes can transform everything else in your day and life.  Would you think it ok if no one in your family took the time to say, “Good Morning”? How then could you start the day ignoring the very one who created you and gave His life to save yours? Read verse 7 and 14.  How can you praise Him without even taking time to hear from Him each morning? What kind of rejoicing is ignoring Him every morning?   

#3 Memorize Scripture  

As much as you can memorize scripture.  That is harder for me since chemotherapy 30 years ago and my now aging brain.  Still, the Holy Spirit brings scriptures back into my mind as needed and I have my phone ready to look up the scriptures each time one comes to mind.  

What I have found is, the essence remains and from one or two words or ideas I can find the scripture quickly.  So do not get discouraged in this.  It is very important to know scripture.  I must read scripture more diligently and clasp to it.  When I need to remember a concept or words, I write them down.  Then I try to reuse them in my speech throughout the day to others.  I recall them frequently as I go about my day.  And I whisper them back to God in prayer at night.  You can see this in verses 11, 12, and 13.   

#4 Speak

of the Wonder of Knowing the All-Powerful Compassionate Jesus 

The more you speak of Him, the stronger your own heart grows.  It serves as not only testimony of Him to a desperate world in need, but also reminds your own heart of all He has done for you.  See verses 14 through 16.  Each time you witness, you find the Holy Spirits power growing within your own heart.  How can you not?  He gives you the words and places people in front of you.   

Yesterday, I stopped at a pharmacy to get something to help my sister-in-law.  The conversation led to my mentioning having breast cancer and all the hormonal effects of a very early menopause.  The pharmacist started crying.  That opened the door for me to tell her of the All-Powerful Compassionate Jesus who is the author of possibility where all looks impossible.  She had just completed chemotherapy for breast cancer.  You never know how your own transparency can open doors to lead people to a saving knowledge of Him.   

#5 Pray Meditationally

Take time to sit alone with the All-Powerful Compassionate Jesus and just “abide” in His presence.  “Be still, and know that I am Lord” (Psalm 46:10)   Ask Him to guide your heart and thoughts.   be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. (Romans 12:2).  How do we do that?  By taking heed unto His word, see verse 9 of Psalm 119.  Also note that leads to verse 16 of Psalm 119.  “ I will delight myself in your statutes: I will not forget Your words.” 

#6 Write Down –Journal

what the All-Powerful Compassionate Jesus has done for You 

As you keep a journal, mark scriptures in your Bible. Thereby, you establish a road path.  There you can look back. Thus, you see His faithfulness in the past.  That reminds you of all He has done.  There are even those notations in my Bible when I asked foolishly. However, He wisely said, “No, I have something better for you.”  Looking back, I see He was right.  Had He given me what I foolishly asked for, I would have been destroyed.  The closer we Abide in Him, the nearer our requests become His will for us.  What a wondrous God He is!   

Verse 15 was David’s reflection of this truth.  “I will meditate in thy precepts and have respect unto thy ways.”   I meditate more on His words. Therefore, naturally my heart aligns more closely with His Heart for me.  That is why God can say, “Delight thyself also in the Lord: and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart. Commit thy way unto the Lord; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass.” (Psalm 37:4-5)   When I am truly delighting in the All-Powerful Compassionate Jesus, my desires align with His.  He knows what is best for me.  His desire is my joy be complete in Him.  Therefore, He will give me that which brings me ever closer to Him.   

Delight  in Him is the Product

Joy overflowing with delight is the product of Abiding in Him.  So, why not trust in the All-Powerful, Compassionate Jesus.  As we abide in Him, He does the rest.  Ask for His wisdom to guide your thoughts and your mind.  He is all you really need.    The more we delight in Him, the more we glorify Him. The more we glorify Him, the more His Glory reflects in our life. Amazing how this works.

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD? He is our only Hope in Life and Death! Our Joy is found in Him.

Therefore if you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord: I urge you today. Go to my page titled How to Be Saved by clicking on this link. There is nothing more important than this; because He is the way, the truth and the life. Therefore, I urge you to seek Him today.

For Prayer or Comments

If you have a prayer request feel free to email me by clicking here

Furthermore, if you would like to share your story or thoughts, you can comment here

Previous Post

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2025

Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. Furthermore, I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned except for my own books. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Please note: This Post only has quotes from the KJV Bible.

BSB (BEREAN STUDY BIBLE)

The Berean Bible and Majority Bible texts are officially dedicated to the public domain as of April 30, 2023.

New King James Version (NKJV)Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

New American Standard Bible (NASB)New American Standard Bible®, Copyright © 1960, 1971, 1977, 1995, 2020 by The Lockman Foundation. All rights reserved.

New English Translation (NET)NET Bible® copyright ©1996-2017 by Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. http://netbible.com All rights reserved.

Amplified Bible (AMP)Copyright © 2015 by The Lockman Foundation, La Habra, CA 90631. All rights reserved.

English Standard Version (ESV)

The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. ESV® Text Edition: 2016. Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.

Photo licensed from shutterstock.com

How to Know Strength in God with Freedom from Fear 

I will love thee, O Lord, my strength. 

 The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower.  Psalm 18:1-2

We live in a world where trials come at us from all sides.  Sometimes they come from within us.  We see the obstacles and the difficulties. We look back at our own failures which haunt us with fear and sorrow.  “If only” becomes a theme.  Our hearts faint with the thoughts of our own inadequacies.  Yet so often we fail to look at the one true source of strength—the Lord is my Rock.  He who chose me before the earth was ever formed, knew me even then.  With all my failures and inadequacies, He loved me and came to give His life so I might be His beloved bride.  To know strength in God through trials with freedom from fear I only look to my Lord who is the horn of my salvation, my buckler and my high tower.  

Of all days, Mother’s Day reminds me of His Grace through it all.  When I recall my inadequacies as a daughter to truly understand my mother or show her all the love she deserved, I weep buckets of tears.  Or to recall all the times I failed as a mother.  Yet through it all it has been the Lord who is my rock and my fortress.  He is my deliverer and my strength.  When I see my children, I see the fullness of His grace.  Despite my fumbling, He has led each of them to Himself.  It is for that reason; I urge you to read Psalm 18 alongside I Samuel 2 and II Samuel 22.  God has placed these words in His word repeatedly so we might understand He is our true source.  We can truly know strength in God through trials and have full freedom from fear.   

No enemy can ever defeat us who know Him as Lord. 

Know Strength in God through Trials with Freedom from Fear as David did 

Psalm 18 was written as per its inscription when David was first installed as King after so many years running and hiding from Saul.  God had anointed David many years prior, but Saul in jealously tried to kill him.  Hiding in caves, waiting upon God; David had learned who was His strength.  He began the psalm with a heartfelt declaration of His love for the Lord who was His strength. 

Many years later in II Samuel 22, near the end of his life, he again sang this song with little change.  However, by then, King David realized he was incapable of loving God with the full depths he had declared he would.  The more we know of God’s Grace and Love for us, the more we recognize our own inability to love adequately though we desire to love Him as He loves us. 

During those years, David had failed God many times.  Not only as King, but also as a father.  Perhaps it was his own failures that prevented him from adequately guiding his sons.  Examples set.  Thoughts rampant with the doubts and shame sin leaves behind in its wake.  With his own sin ever before him, he failed to punish Amnon after he had raped his sister.  Bitterness then grew between Absalom and Amnon resulting in Absalom ordering his brother’s death.  This resulted in the exile of Absalom who later overtook his father David’s throne for a time.  David had to run for his life again.  

Yet, God in his grace restored David.  God chose Solomon to succeed David in the line of Kings leading to the true King Jesus.  He also promised David that He, the Lord, would never take His spirit from Solomon. King Solomon did fail God for a time as well.  God kept His promise.

It is ALL About God and Him Alone 

To Know Strength in God through Trials with Freedom from Fear is all about grace and God’s unconditional love for us, His power and His strength. It is not about our ability to love Him, though that truth should break our heart with love for Him as well.   That is when we truly recognize His love for us.  Peter learned this fact only after He denied Christ three times.  Then, Jesus called Peter aside to ask, “Do you love me with an Agape (God like love) to which Peter replied, “Not as I should, but I love you with all that I am able to which is so inadequate compared to yours”.  We must not think too highly of our abilities.  Only when we come to the end of ourselves can we truly give Him our hearts fully.    

That was the case with Hannah as well.  Her prayer in I Samuel 2 is very similar to that of David’s prayer.  She was bitter, depressed, and not fully surrendered to God at first when we read I Samuel 1. Then, finally after praying, weeping bitterly, she surrendered to God’s will.  Accepting whatever the future might bring, only then did she conceive and bear a son. Samuel went on to become the most influential priest, judge, and prophet.  As such, we got a glimpse (though imperfect glimpse) of our priest, judge, and prophet King Jesus. Samuel went on to anoint both Saul and David as King.   

Know Strength in God Through Trials with Freedom from Fear I Samuel 2: 1-10 

And Hannah prayed, and said, “My heart rejoiceth in the Lord, mine horn is exalted in the Lord: my mouth is enlarged over mine enemies; because I rejoice in thy salvation. There is none holy as the Lord: for there is none beside thee: neither is there any rock like our God. Talk no more so exceeding proudly; let not arrogancy come out of your mouth: for the Lord is a God of knowledge, and by him actions are weighed. The bows of the mighty men are broken, and they that stumbled are girded with strength.  

They that were full have hired out themselves for bread; and they that were hungry ceased: so that the barren hath born seven; and she that hath many children is waxed feeble.  The Lord killeth, and maketh alive: he bringeth down to the grave, and bringeth up. The Lord maketh poor, and maketh rich: he bringeth low, and lifteth up. He raiseth up the poor out of the dust, and lifteth up the beggar from the dunghill, to set them among princes, and to make them inherit the throne of glory: for the pillars of the earth are the Lord’s, and he hath set the world upon them.  

He will keep the feet of his saints, and the wicked shall be silent in darkness; for by strength shall no man prevail. The adversaries of the Lord shall be broken to pieces; out of heaven shall he thunder upon them: the Lord shall judge the ends of the earth; and he shall give strength unto his king, and exalt the horn of his anointed. 

Psalm 18: 3-18  The Lord is All Powerful Giving Freedom from Fear 

 I will call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised: so shall I be saved from mine enemies.  The sorrows of death compassed me, and the floods of ungodly men made me afraid. The sorrows of hell compassed me about: the snares of death prevented me. In my distress I called upon the Lord and cried unto my God: he heard my voice out of his temple, and my cry came before him, even into his ears. 

Then the earth shook and trembled; the foundations also of the hills moved and were shaken, because he was wroth. There went up a smoke out of his nostrils, and fire out of his mouth devoured: coals were kindled by it.  He bowed the heavens also and came down: and darkness was under his feet. And he rode upon a cherub, and did fly: yea, he did fly upon the wings of the wind. He made darkness his secret place; his pavilion round about him were dark waters and thick clouds of the skies. At the brightness that was before him his thick clouds passed, hail stones and coals of fire. 

The Lord also thundered in the heavens, and the Highest gave his voice; hail stones and coals of fire. Yea, he sent out his arrows, and scattered them; and he shot out lightnings, and discomfited them. Then the channels of waters were seen, and the foundations of the world were discovered at thy rebuke, O Lord, at the blast of the breath of thy nostrils. He sent from above, he took me, he drew me out of many waters. He delivered me from my strong enemy, and from them which hated me: for they were too strong for me. They prevented me in the day of my calamity: but the Lord was my stay. 

Why Would God Do That for Me?   

David makes it very clear that to know strength in God through trials and freedom from fear is the result of God’s grace.  Please note carefully these verses.  Psalm 18:19-29   

Note commentary in parenthesis are my words.   

19 He brought me forth also into a large place; he delivered me, because he delighted in me.  

 (Why? He delighted in me-not because of anything I have done.  It is by Grace Alone through faith alone in Christ alone). 

20-21 The Lord rewarded me according to my righteousness; according to the cleanness of my hands hath he recompensed me. For I have kept the ways of the Lord and have not wickedly departed from my God.  

 (Though I have failed, I did not do so with malice toward God nor deliberate defiance.  At times I lied to myself to cover my sinful desires as not so bad. But never did I purposely walk away.  Always I wanted to follow Him. Despite this I failed so often because I wanted to do it by my own strength to prove to Him of my love.  Surrender was not in my vocabulary at times.  If only I would try harder.  Then God would see how much I loved Him.  Funny, how we want to gain Him by works.  But when we realize we cannot; then, and only then does He take full control).  

22-24 For all his judgments were before me, and I did not put away his statutes from me. I was also upright before him, and I kept myself from mine iniquity. Therefore, hath the Lord recompensed me according to my righteousness, according to the cleanness of my hands in his eyesight. 

  (His eyesight is the key.  My righteousness is covered by the blood of Christ.  David’s was as well, although he looked forward to the Messiah and we look back to the completed work on the cross. I am accounted as righteous in his eyes because I am cloaked in the righteousness of Christ.  When God the Father looks at me.  He sees the completed work of Christ covering my sin.) 

25-27 With the merciful thou wilt shew thyself merciful; with an upright man thou wilt shew thyself upright; With the pure thou wilt shew thyself pure; and with the froward thou wilt shew thyself froward. For thou wilt save the afflicted people; but wilt bring down high looks.  For thou wilt light my candle: the Lord my God will enlighten my darkness. For by thee I have run through a troop; and by my God have I leaped over a wall.   

(Only you Lord can transform my darkness into light.  I cannot.  Therefore, I plead you shine your light so I might see.  This I know you do through your word.  The study of your word and communion through prayer are what you call me to do.  You do the rest.) 

Because of all this, I can know strength in God through trials with Freedom from Fear 

Look what David wrote in Psalm 18: 29-45 

For by thee I have run through a troop; and by my God have I leaped over a wall.As for God, his way is perfect: the word of the Lord is tried: he is a buckler to all those that trust in him. For who is God save the Lord? or who is a rock save our God? It is God that girdeth me with strength, and maketh my way perfect. 

He maketh my feet like hinds’ feet, and setteth me upon my high places. He teacheth my hands to war, so that a bow of steel is broken by mine arms. Thou hast also given me the shield of thy salvation: and thy right hand hath holden me up, and thy gentleness hath made me great. Thou hast enlarged my steps under me, that my feet did not slip.I have pursued mine enemies, and overtaken them: neither did I turn again till they were consumed. I have wounded them that they were not able to rise: they are fallen under my feet.  

For thou hast girded me with strength unto the battle: thou hast subdued under me those that rose up against me. Thou hast also given me the necks of mine enemies; that I might destroy them that hate me. They cried, but there was none to save them: even unto the Lord, but he answered them not. Then did I beat them small as the dust before the wind: I did cast them out as the dirt in the streets.  

Thou hast delivered me from the strivings of the people; and thou hast made me the head of the heathen: a people whom I have not known shall serve me.  As soon as they hear of me, they shall obey me: the strangers shall submit themselves unto me. The strangers shall fade away, and be afraid out of their close places. 

As David Concluded: Psalm 18:46-50 

The Lord liveth; and blessed be my rock; and let the God of my salvation be exalted.  It is God that avengeth me, and subdueth the people under me.  He delivereth me from mine enemies: yea, thou liftest me up above those that rise up against me: thou hast delivered me from the violent man. Therefore, will I give thanks unto thee, O Lord, among the heathen, and sing praises unto thy name. Great deliverance giveth he to his king; and sheweth mercy to his anointed, to David, and to his seed for evermore. 

We know strength in God through trials and freedom from fear because He has said, 

Thou whom I have taken from the ends of the earth, and called thee from the chief men thereof, and said unto thee, Thou art my servant; I have chosen thee, and not cast thee away. Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness. Behold, all they that were incensed against thee shall be ashamed and confounded: they shall be as nothing; and they that strive with thee shall perish. Thou shalt seek them, and shalt not find them, even them that contended with thee: they that war against thee shall be as nothing, and as a thing of nought. For I the Lord thy God will hold thy right hand, saying unto thee, Fear not; I will help thee.  Isaiah 41:9-13  

So how do we live our lives to know strength in God through trials and freedom from fear? 

  1. Trust Him 
  1. Remember His kindnesses to you 
  1. Recall the salvation by grace He provided for you 
  1. Read His word, both morning and night—let it start and end each day 
  1. Pray continuously.  Instead of listening to your voice all day long, talk with Him. 
  1.  Never forget, this world is not your home.  You are merely passing through.   
  1.  All things work together for good to those who are called according to His purpose.  Romans 8:28-29 

Of course, this is true only if you know Him as Lord and Savior of your life.  If not today is the day of Salvation. 

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD? He is our only Hope in Life and Death! Our Joy is found in Him.

Therefore if you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord: I urge you today. Go to my page titled How to Be Saved by clicking on this link. There is nothing more important than this; because He is the way, the truth and the life. Therefore, I urge you to seek Him today.

For Prayer or Comments

If you have a prayer request feel free to email me by clicking here

Furthermore, if you would like to share your story or thoughts, you can comment here

Previous Post

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2025

Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. Furthermore, I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned except for my own books. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Please note: This post only has quotes from the KJV Bible.

BSB (BEREAN STUDY BIBLE)

The Berean Bible and Majority Bible texts are officially dedicated to the public domain as of April 30, 2023.

New King James Version (NKJV)Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

New American Standard Bible (NASB)New American Standard Bible®, Copyright © 1960, 1971, 1977, 1995, 2020 by The Lockman Foundation. All rights reserved.

New English Translation (NET)NET Bible® copyright ©1996-2017 by Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. http://netbible.com All rights reserved.

Amplified Bible (AMP)Copyright © 2015 by The Lockman Foundation, La Habra, CA 90631. All rights reserved.

English Standard Version (ESV)

The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. ESV® Text Edition: 2016. Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.

Photo licensed from Goodsalt.com

Do You See the Fields are White for Harvest for God? 

And Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every sickness and every disease among the people. But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd.  Then saith he unto his disciples, “The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few; Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that He will send forth labourers into his harvest.” Matthew 9: 35-38 KJV

“When He saw the multitudes, He was moved with compassion, because they fainted and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd.” (Matthew 9:36).  This was not how it was at creation. But Sin entered the world.  With it came, death, heartache, sorrow, pain, suffering and chaos.  As Jesus walked about this world healing those whom He met; sorrow rose heavily in His heart.  That is why later at the tomb of Lazurus, He wept with a harrowing sigh and loud wale.  Sin’s destruction was the very reason He came to die.  His love would not permit all to perish.   

Even if only a few accepted Him, those few were enough to give His life to save them.  Enough for Him to pay the price for their sin. His love demanding such. Yet, as He looked upon this crowd of broken hearts with spirits separated from the joy He meant for them to have; He felt compassion.  If only they knew. 

Who will be the laborers?

This task would require laborers.  Those willing to take up their cross and follow Him wherever He leads them.  Until this point in Matthew there had been a careful weaving of the facts proving Jesus as the true Messiah.  From His lineage to David to the miracles presented.  Fulfillments of Old Testament Prophecy presented an unmistakable truth—Jesus was the Messiah rejected by His own.  They wanted a reigning King who brought peace, prosperity and freedom from prison.  All this promised by Isaiah.  Yet, now John the Baptist sat in prison.  Pain, suffering and sorrow still filled the earth.  Roman rulership still reigned.  Yet, Jesus asks His disciples to look at the field white for harvest and pray for laborers to be sent out.  Did they realize, He would then send them.  God’s answer to their prayers was, “You, go”.   

The Fields are White for Harvest—Look, weep, pray, and go 

   Is that not the plea to us today?  Look around you.  All the masses of people who do not know Him.  Feel the pain, the sorrow, the suffering—look, weep for the sin that wreaks havoc on our world. Pray.  And go witness wherever you are.   

Certainly, we can look around us and see the brokenness.  But does our heart break for what breaks His?  Or do we just complain about their destruction of what is good and righteous? Not realizing we are just as broken as they.  Our only salvation did not come from our own volition.  Instead, it came with a very heavy price.  A price paid by Jesus Christ Himself on the cross.  So, as we look at Matthew 10, let us consider the cost of discipleship.  Weigh it in our own hearts and answer the question. “Am I willing to pay the price to follow Him?” What will it take to have a heart like His?  

Then Came the Call to Action 

And when He had called His twelve disciples to Him, He gave them power over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all kinds of sickness and all kinds of disease.  Matthew 10:1 (NKJV) 

He had them first see the crowd in their suffering state.  Then, pray for them—preparing their hearts to be called.  After that, He called them and gave them power.  We too need these steps.  Unless we truly see the lost as lost sheep in need of a Shepherd, a Savior; then we walk right past without a thought for them.  

Then came prayer for the lost.  Once the heart is opened by compassion for the lost, prayer provides a means of opening our hearts to action.  We need the help of the Holy Spirit and too often we wander around forgetting we have this power within us. Our natural state is inclined to push Him aside, ignoring the truth of His power within us. 

Though the Fields Are White for Harvest, There Are Risks One Must Accept 

The initial trip for the Apostles was one of Training.  Initially they were to only go to the lost sheep of Israel.  Although given the prophecies and the fact they were Jews, this should have been the easier crowd.  Go where you are.  Sometimes though these are the hardest crowd—family, friends, and co-workers.  After all, they know you with all your warts and mess ups.   

These twelve Jesus sent out and commanded them, saying: “Do not go into the way of the Gentiles, and do not enter a city of the Samaritans.  But go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. 7 And as you go, preach, saying, ‘The kingdom of heaven is at hand.’ Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out demons. Freely you have received, freely give.  Matthew 10:5-8 (NKJV) 

Often we are rejected.  The truth that Jesus is the Way, the only way often brings strife within families and friends.    This is the harsh reality, they had to face.  And we as well.  If my desire is to be loved by everyone, I too will fail.  Neither do I mean, we are to be harsh and brow beating. We are to present the truth in love. Yet, we must not compromise the truth.  Even if we are rejected by those around us.   

Jesus said to them 

“Do not think that I came to bring peace on earth. I did not come to bring peace but a sword For I have come to ‘set a man against his father, a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law’;  and ‘a man’s enemies will be those of his own household.’ He who loves father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me. And he who loves son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me. And he who does not take his cross and follow after Me is not worthy of Me.  He who finds his life will lose it, and he who loses his life for My sake will find it.  Matthew 10:34-39 NKJV 

Wait a minute!  Did not the Angels sing “peace on earth, good will to men?”  They did.  And Jesus brought the only hope of Peace on Earth, good will to men.  But that was on the cross where He bore our sins.  It was at a great cost to Him, but He is our only hope of Peace with God.  

Jesus is Preparing Them for the Fields White for Harvest Yet to Come 

Before the apostles would be able to carry on after Christ’s death and resurrection, they needed some training in faith.  They needed to see the task before them.  For that reason, He sent them without money or extra clothing.  They would need to learn to live by faith for even their food.   

Provide neither gold nor silver nor copper in your money belts,  nor bag for your journey, nor two tunics, nor sandals, nor staffs; for a worker is worthy of his food. Matthew 10: 9-10 NKJV 

You will have to rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment as well.  

And whatever city or village you enter, inquire who is worthy in it, and stay at his house until you leave that city. As you enter the house, give it your greeting.  If the house is worthy, see that your blessing of peace comes upon it. But if it is not worthy, take back your blessing of peace. And whoever does not receive you nor listen to your words, as you leave that house or city, shake the dust off your feet. Truly I say to you, it will be more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrah on the day of judgment, than for that city. Matthew 10:11-15 NASB 

Although the Fields are White for Harvest, there will be persecution 

“Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves. Therefore be wise as serpents and harmless as doves. But beware of men, for they will deliver you up to councils and scourge you in their synagogues. You will be brought before governors and kings for My sake, as a testimony to them and to the Gentiles.  But when they deliver you up, do not worry about how or what you should speak. For it will be given to you in that hour what you should speak; for it is not you who speak, but the Spirit of your Father who speaks in you.  Matthew 10: 16-20 NKJV 

Wise as serpents, but harmless as doves.  We need the discernment of the Holy Spirit always with us. As well as we need love, compassion, and mercy. These are only empowered by the Holy Spirit as well.  If left to my own ability to forgive and show mercy.  Well, that would not go so well indeed.  Yet, despite that, we can expect persecution.  By this I mean there will be those that try to lock us up or take away our jobs because we speak for Jesus.  Don’t let that surprise you.  In some areas of the world, to speak the name of Jesus may mean certain death.   

Yet, what are we to fear as we labor for the fields are white for Harvest? 

All things have been delivered to Me by My Father, and no one knows the Son except the Father. Nor does anyone know the Father except the Son, and the one to whom the Son wills to reveal Him.  Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.  Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”  Matthew 11:27-30 NKJV 

Yes, we are to take up our cross and follow Him.  No. My cross is not my family. Nor is my cross my physical ailments.  My cross is to die to my selfish desires, my pride, and my constant thoughts of me.  We are to die to self that we might live to Him.  Yes, this world is burdensome.  But yoked to Christ, I know He lifts me up as He carries the burden for me.   

A Poem for Today

Lord, Lift Me High

Chorus 

Oh, lift me high above the fray 

That I might see and go today 

To Follow you, I must not stray 

Amidst the darkness of this day 

Your light to shine along the way 

The world around so filled with pain 

I cannot bear my tears restrain 

Your heart dear Lord, in me remain 

The Strength And love to always reign 

Above this heart of mine, so vain 

Chorus: 

Oh, lift me high above the fray 

That I might see and go today 

To Follow you, I must not stray 

Amidst the darkness of this day 

Your light to shine along the way 

Oh, help me Lord, my cross to bear 

Die to myself, Become aware 

That as I lift my heart in prayer 

You lift away my burden, care 

Your Spirit’s Joy You freely share 

Chorus: 

Oh, lift me high above the fray 

That I might see and go today 

To Follow you, I must not stray 

Amidst the darkness of this day 

Your light to shine along the way 

So, Lord do not let me forget 

The Grace You gave that day we met 

Along this road, filled with regret 

You paid for me my heavy debt 

And freed my soul from any threat 

Chorus 

Oh, lift me high above the fray 

That I might see and go today 

To Follow you, I must not stray 

Amidst the darkness of this day 

Your light to shine along the way 

Transform this heart that I might be 

A beacon light that all may see 

Your love shine from inside of me 

By faith, You set the captives free 

Their heart may then be filled with glee 

by Effie Darlene Barba

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD? He is our only Hope in Life and Death! Our Joy is found in Him.

Therefore if you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord: I urge you today. Go to my page titled How to Be Saved by clicking on this link. There is nothing more important than this; because He is the way, the truth and the life. Therefore, I urge you to seek Him today.

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©Effie Darlene Barba, 2025

Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. Furthermore, I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned except for my own books. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

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