can ruin our anchor .
Do we boast upon our education , knowledge or skill ? Do we believe that money can do everything ? Are we proud of our social status ? Have we built our trust on our parents , relatives or friends ?
None of these are long lasting . There will be a time , when we will realize and confess along with the Psalmist and say , “ The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer ; my God , my strength , in whom I will trust ; My shield and the horn of my salvation , my stronghold ” ( Ps 18:2 ).
Have faith in God . Journeying with Christ will not be a smooth sail . It is a life of faith with the assurance that God is with us in every walk of life . Be it in sorrow or pain , joy or ecstasy , He is ever with us . anything for the Lord who saved him .
Fear will hinder us from accomplishing anything for Christ .
Let us not fear the rejection or criticism of our friends and fall a prey to their schemes . We need to guard our holiness and chastity at all cost . Joseph refused to sin and ran away , though it was his master ' s wife who tempted him . If he had yielded to her lustful desire , he would have lost God ' s purpose in his life . God had a better plan for Joseph who said , “ How can I sin against God ?” And he became the ruler of Egypt .
Fellowship with believers is very crucial to keep the faith alive and growing . We need to meet together at least once in a week . We need to form “ Prayer cells ” where we can share and mutually help each other to grow in the Lord .
“.... If they fall , one will lift up his companion ... A threefold cord is not quickly broken ” ( Eccl 4:9-12 ).
Remember , failure is not the end . If we fail in examination or if we are having relationship problems or if the situation at home is overwhelming , never ever think of suicide . It is not the answer . We have no right to take the life which God has given us . Instead , like Peter let us call upon God . The Lord who stretched out His hand and caught Peter , will answer us , embrace us and guide us . He will never forsake us . “ Above all take the shield of faith ”. This will enable us to face the challenges that we come across in life .
4 . Undaunted Courage
Walking on water is not an easy task . Peter ' s courage is commendable ! He had a strong mind to do
Be bold . The Lord who said , “ Be of good cheer ; I have overcome the world ” is with us . Jesus said , “ You are not of the world , I chose you out of the world , therefore the world hates you ” ( Jn 15:19 ).
Don ' t be afraid or feel shy to share your testimony with your friends . Apostle Paul said , “ I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ ” ( Rom 1:16 ). Personal evangelism is the greatest of all ministries . Be bold to proclaim the love of Jesus . “ Woe is me if I do not preach the gospel ” ( 1 Cor 9 : `16 ).
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