When they say, “Peace and security,”  then sudden destruction comes on them, like labor pains come on a pregnant woman, and they will not escape.  But you, brothers are not in the dark, for this day to overtake you like a thief.  For you are all sons of light and sons of the day.  We do not belong to the night or the darkness.  1 Thessalonians 5:3-5 HCSB

Just when we think all is well is when the shoe is going to drop, right?  Just when things are rolling along, we hit a snag.  Our scripture passage today reminds us that when we get too “comfortable” with the way things are that sudden destruction comes.  We have all been there and done that, right?  I used to live my life according to my circumstances.  When things were going well, I was apt to pray a little less.  I was apt to go to church when I felt like it.  I was apt to read my bible along with the pastor in church, but not while I was at home.  I was busy living the life.  But then, things would blow up and I would pray and cry out to God.  I would beg him to help me through this mess.  I might attend church more often and I might even read my bible at home.  Funny how that works, isn’t it?

Working in probation and parole, I can tell you that many people find the Lord when they get put in jail.  The sad thing is that they tend to leave Him there.  As soon as they can get out and start partying with their friends, they forget all about Jesus.  But I can’t fault them for that, I used to do the same thing.

But let me share something with you, my life used to be a roller coaster ride.  I was riding high when things were  good and sinking down low when things were bad.  I was living my life according to my circumstances.  You see, I wanted to give my problems to God, but I didn’t want to give my partying to God.  I didn’t want to give my sinful ways over to Him because I knew He would cause me to stop.  I wanted to pick and choose what I gave to Him.  But then the mess would hit the fan, if you know what I mean?  And then there I was again on my knees, pitiful, needing God’s help.

I was able to live like that for years, up and down, up and down.  Finally it got so bad that I just couldn’t live that way anymore.  I had to give it all over to God.  I had to give my sin over to Him.  I had to love Him and trust Him with my heart, soul, and mind.  I had to hold nothing back.  Whew!  What a relief that was!  That was truly the best decision I have ever made in my life and I’m sure it is the best decision that I will have ever made.  I am now a child of the light.  Darkness cannot overtake me.

I no longer live according to my ever changing circumstances.  I am always wrapped up in God’s protection which also includes peace that passes all understanding and unending joy.  It’s a sweet deal let me tell you.  If you are still trying to live with one foot in the darkness and one in the light, it’s not gonna work.  I can tell you this from experience.  Come into the light, trust in God.  Give it all over to Him and allow Him to protect you from the darkness.  Allow Him to steady your life and keep you on an even path.  Get off the roller coaster.  It’s only fun for the first 20 or so years, trust me.  It’s time to get off the ride.

Psalm 16:8 says, I have set the Lord continually before me;  Because He is at my right hand, I will not be shaken.

Align yourself with the ruler of the universe and don’t allow the universe to rule you. Find out just how awesome it is to remain steady and calm even when disaster is all around you.  Don’t let it overtake you, seek refuge in your Lord and Savior continually.

Have a great day!