Brigette Wagner Ministries

“I will never leave you nor forsake you…” ~ Hebrews 13:5 (NKJV)

At various times in our lives, we go through difficulties that stretch us, grow us, and shape us for Kingdom purposes. Whether it’s because of poor choices we’ve made or circumstances beyond our control, financial stress, broken relationships, sickness, loss, addictions, fear, anxiety, depression, or a variety of other challenges can touch our lives and leave us wondering “Where is God?”.

I have exciting news for you today: God is always where-ever you are. His Word says that even if we go into the depths of hell, He is there. No matter how “good” or “bad” our situation is, God is right beside us.

HE NEVER LEAVES US! NEVER!!

So you might ask this question: “If God never leaves me, why do I feel so alone?” I’m glad you asked. In the midst of difficult times, “fiery darts” are hurled at God’s children. Our thought process changes because the enemy uses fear, failure, anxiety, depression, oppression, and loneliness to make us feel like no one else understands our situation or struggle. We, then, begin to isolate ourselves from others, and even God.

Check yourself: Are you spending time in God’s Word? Are you listening to music that ushers you into the presence of God? Are you praising Him? Are you praying? If so, how are you praying? Are you praying for God to simply answer your request or are you praying for His best to be done in your life?

Many times, we treat God like McDonald’s drive-in. We pull up when we’re hungry, speak loudly into the speaker, place our order, then drive up to the next window to pick it up. But when we “get to the window” to pick up our order and find that the “order” isn’t exactly the way we wanted it, we get angry, blame God for not listening, and go “do our own thing” because “God doesn’t hear our prayer”.

Friend, be encouraged today: God is always with you and always hears your prayers. He is not a feeling, He’s a reality. Sometimes, though, we have to walk THROUGH difficulties in order to grow and mature into what HIS BEST is for our lives. If you’re going through a difficult time right now, draw closer to Him and find strength, courage, peace, and forgiveness. Learn to trust Him; and when you come out “on the other side” of this trial, you’ll be a better Christian, better person, better parent, better friend, and better servant!

“Whoever loves instruction loves knowledge, but he who hates correction is stupid.” ~Proverbs 12:1 (NKJV)

Every single one of us has “stuff”, you know what I mean? Think about it…..At every stage of our lives, we have areas that need attention and growth. Sometimes, we grow in a certain area and think we’re done. Then, months or even years later, we find ourselves dealing with that same issue but at a deeper level.

Many times, God deals with the “issue” in our lives by peeling away one layer at a time so our brain and emotions can handle the impact.

One of the most rewarding parts of ministry is working with people who accept the challenge of growing in their relationship with God and moving into their destiny. On the other hand, one of the most frustrating things in ministry is trying to help someone who says he/she wants to grow and change but refuses to “die to the flesh” in order to “live by the spirit”.

“Lip service” gets us nowhere! BUT GOD SEES EVERY EFFORT WE MAKE – no matter how large or small – and is pleased when we strive to live for Him, to fulfill the Call He has on our lives.

I’ve recently had several people ask about the various “self-help” books I’ve read over the years. So I thought I’d share some of my favorites….

Growing in God: “The Strength of a Godly Woman” by Beverly LaHaye, “A Woman After God’s Own Heart” by Elizabeth George, “Knowing God Intimately” by Joyce Meyer, “Where Are The Armorbearers?” by Bryan Cutshall.

Overcoming Challenges: “Prison to Praise” by Merlin Carothers, “Hinds Feet on High Places” by Hannah Hurnard, “Lord Change Me” by Evelyn Christenson, “Me and My Big Mouth!” by Joyce Meyer, “Unmasking the Jezabel Spirit”.

Overcoming Offenses: “The Bait of Satan” by John Bevere [This is a book that EVERY Christian should read!]

Overcoming People Pleasing: “Approval Addiction” by Joyce Meyer, “Breaking Intimidation” by John Bevere.

Be encouraged today: There’s no greater source than God and His Word. But if you’ve been struggling with an area in your life that needs some growth or change, go to your local Christian bookstore – alone – and spend some time looking through books that are targeted for your area of need. Ask God to show you exactly which book is what you need at this time. Then READ IT and DECIDE to make the changes in your life that will move you into God’s fulfillment!