Facing Life’s Challenges with a High View of God
By Terri Burroughs – BSF Board Member
What a year to study the book of Genesis! I saw God’s hand in every chapter as the world around me faced one crisis after another. We all know people who are still suffering, burdened by loss or struggling in their physical, mental or emotional health.
This past year, I watched my dear friend Mike say goodbye to his wife Mary after a prolonged illness. Gripped by grief and loss, this couple spent her final days on earth encouraging others toward the goal of Christ. They were determined to use every minute of her life for God’s glory.
As we worked our way through Genesis, I asked myself, “How do people like Mike and Mary come through the crises of life with a sense of peace, hope, and joy?” I’m not talking about stoicism or optimism, but those who confront the brutal facts of their reality without surrendering to defeat.
Digging into God’s Word
Take Joseph. How did he survive his brothers’ betrayal and go on to thrive despite the many years of enslavement and unjust imprisonment?
What was at the root of Abraham’s willingness to leave everything familiar to him? Or his readiness to sacrifice Isaac at God’s command?
What caused Job in the midst of life’s deepest loss to declare of God: “Though he slay me, yet I will trust in Him”? (Job 13:15)
Have you ever wondered why Peter got out of the boat when Jesus said “come,” even though it made no sense? (Matthew 14:28-29)
Are you humbled by our Lord Jesus Christ’s anguished choice to be obedient to God the Father even to the point of death? (Matthew 26:37-39)
The The Profound, Yet Simple Answer
In 2 Timothy 1:7-12, the apostle Paul described one of the characteristics these resilient people of God share.
“For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline. So do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord or of me his prisoner. Rather, join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God. … I know whom I have believed, and am convinced that he is able to guard what I have entrusted to him until that day.
Paul had a high view of God. The same high view as Abraham, Joseph, Job, Peter and my friends, Mike and Mary.
So, if a high view of God enabled Abraham to pass the test and Paul to run the race victoriously, the question is, “How can you and I cultivate a view of God that enables us to stand firm and not be moved in impossible, exhausting, frustrating, hurtful and sometimes even dangerous situations?”
This passage teaches that our view of God influences our perspective, helps us to embrace God’s purposes and anchors the hope we have in the person of God.
As I learn from the people of God in my own life, their testimonies continually affirm these truths. Like the apostle, Paul they know the God in whom they believe. They recognize He alone is at the center of the universe.
They know that while there is nothing wrong with the questions “Who am I?” “What is my identity in Christ?” or “Why is this happening to me?” they must ask these questions within the context of “Who is God?”
A high view of God is about getting the order right. It’s about guarding against the circumstances, situations, people, places, things, and attitudes that can diminish our view of God.
When we believe and have confidence in God as the Creator and Sustainer of all, the Sovereign Lord of history, we shift our perspective from “me” to “He.”
Shaping our Confidence
As we approach life with a high view of God, everything begins with the person of Almighty God. He is our confidence!
Because God is sovereign and there is nothing outside of His will, we can trust that nothing is wasted in the lives of those in whom He reigns supreme.
Because God knows and deeply cherishes us, we can stand boldly before His throne where we will always find mercy and grace.
Because God is omnipresent, we can seek Him anywhere at any time. We never have to feel lonely.
Because God is omniscient; and His thoughts and actions are perfectly informed by perfect knowledge, we can trust Him.
Because God is the standard for what is good; and has given us a framework for living, we can approach life with clarity. We can act with integrity. We don’t have to react to the emotion or the circumstance.
Because God can transform all things, you and I can change. We are not limited by our past and can grow to our potential.
How can we walk through the disappointments, uncertainties, crises, and tragedies of life with a sense of hope, joy, peace, and confidence?
For my friends Mike and Mary, the answer is knowing God, clinging to His truths and embracing His purposes. Personally, my hope is believing His promises and trusting in His goodness, sovereignty, and power.
Through the Father in Genesis, the Son in Matthew, and the enduring gift of the Holy Spirit we find a firm foundation; an anchor to weather any storm.
Terri Burroughs
BSF Board Member – Former Banking Executive
Terri Burroughs has been involved with BSF since 2007 where she served as an Administrative Leader, Group Leader and Teaching Leader for the Raleigh/Cary Evening Women’s Class; and as Area Advisor for BSF classes in Eastern N.C. and Myrtle Beach, S.C. In addition, Terri has served on the Global Advisory Council for BSF and worked with the Headquarters Training Team and BSF Leaders from around the world. In 2020 Terri joined the BSF Board of Directors.
Terri spent more than 20 years as a banking executive where she led business operations, human resources, and learning and development teams. She has been recognized for her work in developing and implementing performance improvement initiatives among diverse work groups and has consulted with corporations in measuring the return-on-investment (ROI) of these types of initiatives. Her work in this area has been featured in industry publications. She has also served on the Board of Visitors for UNC-Children’s Hospital.
Terri and her husband Terrence are active in their church. Their daughter Mattie is engaged to be married.
Thank you for sharing this and giving us hope. Having a strong connection with God is truly a blessing for me. I felt that I was guided by him always. I find hope and light when life seems so harsh.
This message is so comforting to me in the present situation my wife and i are passing through right now.
It is the message of hope,trusting in the Lord,building faith and believing every word of God despite our situation. A kind and passionate message.
A message of spiritual upliftment, growth in the Lord and reassurance of God’s promises. It has given me hope in amidst the difficult and hard times we are experiencing right now. May this word transform our lives all round in Jesus name.
May the Almighty God keep you strengthened and not be wearied in spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ to the whole world in Jesus name,Amen
Thank you.
This was a super helpful article. I’m currently in a bsf group studying revelations- so good. But this week my questions focused on having a right view of God- what if I was taught wrong?
Can we obtain the grace of christ in difficult times as he endured on the cross. Is jesus having the same or special grace as man, knowing he’s the special messiah for the sacrifice of mankind. Is christ of absolute/special grace required to weather the pain, guilt, tear and suffering while on the cross. Just an enquiry to know if such Grace can be granted to man kind in dare need of help .
awesome
Very encouraging and reassuring post!
I am an 89 year old Christian in India; my wife of 56 years, was Called by the Lord, to leave me temporarily, 24 days ago on her 78th year of age; A relative of mine has forwarded me this post to reassure me of the Faithfulness of our Lord, He being Omnipotent, Omnipresent and Omniscient;
Praise His mighty Name!
It’s wonderful to see a woman of color as a board member. However, this article touched my heart before I knew who she was. I’ve taken copious notes to reference when it becomes a little harder to love others.it’s proof that those who have truly submitted to God can come from anywhere and any background. God so wants to use “whosoever will.” I am encouraged that in the end – “all will be well.”
Thank you for the inspirational post, it is just what we needed in these dry, hot days, and with the situation of our world we need to be looking at Christ and not allow the world to stop our joy.
Thank you for this inspirational Post. I am sharing it with my former BSF group members, many of whom are not on FB. The message will strengthen anyone who needs this reminder that our Lord is first and what the concept of ‘first’ requires of us to truly abide in His presence.
I have been going through a period when I have not been studying and praying as previously. I have allowed myself to give most of my time to taking care of my husband and 92 year old mother. My husband does not encourage me in the Lord. I have been revived by this message and have begun to give more time studying the Word and praying.
I can attest to this..it was my 4th time studying genesis, but this time every lesson was so alive to my circumstances, until I faced sudden death of my spouse..
It was holding a high view of God’s promises, and His word that held me in perfect unimaginable control.. this is the word He deposited in my spirit all thru’ MY WILL IS GOOD AND PERFECT.. BELIEVE..!
God certainly can transform all things and changes my thinking, renewing my mind and makes me grow more Christlike. What a Mighty God we serve!!
Matthew 26:37-39 moves me in a profound way every time I reflect on the agony of my Lord and Saviour at Gethsemane. Oh, what great obedience to the Father and LOVE so deeply unfathomable!
Thank you LORD!! You are worthy of all honour and glory!!
Thank You Terri,
For post with such beautiful thought ” “Facing Life’s Challenges with a High View of God,”
I am deeply moved by this inspiring thought .
God Bless you
Lord we thank you for Terri and choosing her to serve you. Strengthen her in these difficult times keep her securely on the path you have her on . Lord we thank you for BSF and making Your word available to all who long for the truth.
As a widow, who best childhood/ lifelong friend died only 2 weeks before my precious husband, I have experienced tremendous and life altering grief. My faith has never wavered but my desire to go forward without them has. COVID and a life threatening condition along with hip replace surgery has knocked the wind out of this once very active and vibrant 72 year old gal. I have drawn closer to the Father through long hours in the Word, through prayer and through connecting with other believers. I have yet to regain my zest for living and this troubles me. I will wait patiently because I know how my story ends, but the last three years have been so difficult. Your article will be saved and reread often. Thank you for sharing! tt
Thank you for reminding us of what God represents to us as believers! Because of who God is we as believers can overcome any situation life presents us. God’s death on the cross, his grace and mercy provides a way for us to become new creatures in Christ. As you stated we don’t have to be bond by our past! Praise God!
Such a great reminder of who God is and holding on to this as we weather the storms of life. Thank you Terri.
Thanks for reminding us of the greatness of our God.
Amen Monica!
I Need to shift from me to Him, because only He is sovereign and good and powerful and all knowing!
Thank you Terri! this is indeed encouraging. Thanks for opening my eyes to the fact that to keep my focus on God know matter the situation, is to know Him as the truth, faithful and sovereign Lord who is the creator and sustainer of His creation and is in control.
To God be the glory!
Thank you for your words of faith and hope. They put a smile on my face and peace in my heart.
“Peace in my heart …” Such a wonderful gift!
Thanks for sharing! Enjoyed the post!
Thanks for sharing! The studies of BSF have taught me how God works through even the most dysfunctional families, there is hope for all of us!
Gayle, that is so true. I can’t wait for Matthew! God used that study in a wonderful way in my own family. His Word is so precious
Dear Mrs. Burroughs
I want to thank you for your message of hope and encouraging guidance. I have been involved in BSF as a leader from 2004, and in leadership since 2005. We immigrated to Canada from SA in 2003 and God gave me BSF to guide and teach and encourage me. Thank you again for helping me focus on our Almighty Holy God that is truly holding everything together. I needed this focus this morning again.
Linky, thank you for your service in leadership! Thankful for the many faithful men and women He has called into BSF
TY Terri! Life has turned me inside out these past three years. I have been angry, hurt, devastated, near giving up & in terrible grief. Your article really hit home as to how powerless I am w/o walking w/God. Trusting Him when the times have been almost too hard to handle has become my only way to keep hope alive. I am getting ready to begin Christian counseling. Your article (sent to me by my BSF going sister, really hits home. I want to be like Mike & Mary & believe my way to carrying on in the midst of whatever trashed or grief, darkness or light envelops me! TY fir your sensitive, simple yet profound article.
Dear Susan, thank you so much for sharing! Praying for you as you begin counseling. Asking our Heavenly Father to go before and sit beside. Thankful for you!
Profound
My view of God will help me remain resilient.
Thanks Terri, I was truly blessed from reading your blog.
Thank you, Terri! Your article is inspiring and beautifully written. Copying and placing in my Bible.
I find this to be remarkably helpful…..clear and very well done. Thank you!
Thank You! I just finished a summer study on the Armor of God!! We have to be Amored up all the time to overcome Evil! Ephesians 6:12-20.
Thank you Terri for sharing the high view of God. Yes, Yes and Amen, God is Faithful.
Thank you, Terri for this straight forward and practical devotion. It was a balm to my soul.
This blog beautifully defines an unnamed connection I have felt all my life. How simple to say I have confidence in God, but how profound to see the blessings that flow out of that precious connection. Thank you for the profound explanation of confidence in scripture and application in our lives.
I am so thankful for gifted writers that speak clearly and truthfully. So thankful for BSF and these posts. Thank you.
Thanks for sharing Mike & Mary’s testimony. It is so encouraging to me. I am looking forward to getting there
Mildred, I too pray for faith and focus like Mike and Mary
Thank you for giving me this perspective at this moment of time. Wrestling with some decisions and not seeing the bigger picture. So grateful that the God we serve is not only cognizant of issues we face but cares beyond measure. We are blessed to be a part of HIStory.
Before has transformed my thinking about God. Given me a new energy to serve as God is not looking for perfect people, He is perfecting those who are willing to serve.
Thank you for the encouraging and inspring words.
Hi Terri! Really enjoyed your article, I’m studying Job right now and find his attitude towards his difficulties are in line with what you’ve shared! Keep that sweet smile and enthusiastic personality that is sure to rub off on others! Betty Carr BSF DW Fayetteville NC, Donna Wiggs TL! I don’t expect you to remember me you meet so many people!
Re: Blog
Terri, Thank you for your spiritual insight in your Blog !! I read it on a day when my mind was ‘overly busy’. ( I’m sure it was the enemy’s attempt to distract me from the word). However, reading and repeating aloud; ” GOD is my confidence” helped so much for reassurance that HIS help is always there (24-7) to “weather my storm” !!
With sincere appreciation and Blessings, Marion
Thank you so much for sending this article. Even though a Christian for many years and going through Genesis this year, we need to be reminded constantly of God’s care while going through trials. There is nothing in this life that we cannot face knowing that God is sovereign over all our affairs. God continue to bless BSF.
Thank you for your Godly perspective. It is what we all need.
Thank you for these inspiring and encouraging words! As a new D-OT, I hope to keep more of Him in my eyesight and less of me. BSF is so blessed to have you as part of the board if directors, steering the ship. Thank you!
I just studied Tamar and how this Canaanite woman learned about the God of Israel; when she was married to Judah’s son ER.
She was faithful thru such tribulation bUT Judah was saved by her testimony and met his half brother in Egypt. What a revelation !
Praise be to GOD for this testimony thats so needed during this pandemic when so many people we know are dying. May the LORD use Terri’s story to strengthen us all and renew our hope in a FATHER who loves us more than we will ever know.
God’s timing is always right on time. I was just asking God for His strength. Thank you for allowing God to use you to share His message. I’m in a spiritual battle and I know the battle is the Lord’s. The insecurities, uncertainties, and questions I have had. God holds me. I learned this this past year. He will never leave us or forsake us. He is faithful. Praise God in Jesus’ Holy Name!!! He wants me to trust in His enduring faithful love. God bless you in Jesus’ Holy Name.
Thank you Terri for mentoring encouragement and love. It’s been very difficult not knowing, not seeing, not touching my family for over a year, but God kept us all alive, except the special one He wanted(my aunt). Just so thankful and grateful for hope, patience and forgiveness. God never fails!
Terri, Thank you for reminding us who we are in Christ Jesus! Not our strength, but His enabling! Not our will, but His will be done! Not our peace, but His! TO GOD BE THE GLORY!!!
Amen! I have been encouraged by Terri’s blog. I am empowered to study and abide in the word of God more.
God bless you Terri for sharing! 🙏💕
Loved this blog Terri! Always a joy to revisit the attributes of the awesome, active, living God we serve! Looking forward to my 21st yr in BSF and continuing serving as a CL with His children! God bless you and thank you for your work and leadership in BSF!
Amen… Praise God our Lord and Savior for the encouraging Word. Having a high view of God! Well say. Blessings to you Terri B. and thank you. What a great question, “ So, if a high view of God enabled Abraham to pass the test and Paul to run the race victoriously, the question is, “How can you and I cultivate a view of God that enables us to stand firm and not be moved in impossible, exhausting, frustrating, hurtful and sometimes even dangerous situations?” I intend you use this question as a conversation starter to encourage others. Blessings
I really enjoyed the blog this morning. I really needed encouragement as I am going through some health issues.I truly enjoyed studying Genesis also and I too could see God’s hand in every chapter. Thank you for the great reminder The Almighty God is our confidence. Please pray for me as I will be undergoing more testing to find out why my stomach continues to make too much acid.
“How? A high view of God!” Worship music and singing is such a powerful way God has turned my attention back on him and who he is in the hard times. Thank you for sharing the powerful truth of turning “me to He”.
To God be the glory for the truth we receive through His word even setting us free in the seasons we experience in this life and for the power to believe in His Son through the help of His Holy Spirit. Shalom
Very encouraging. Thank you for the reminder that because God is, because God knows and because God can, everything will be alright.
Thank you, Terri for sharing Truth and encouragement!
Smithfield, NC – EW
Amen! Thank you Terri for this fruitful encouragement! I needed this, its was so enlightening for me and self reflecting; a great reminder of Who God is & to keep a high view of in ALL circumstances! Im keeping my eye on the prize my loving, omniscient, omnipotent, (and so much more) God in heaven ! This reading came at the right time for me. Thank you!!
Thank you so much for the encouragement. I found Genesis to be a painful book to study but I faithfully pushed on. After finishing the study I was feeling lonely and asking myself what will I do this summer thinking I would take a break and then BSF provided some summer studies. I am beginning my third study and am reminded that what I need each day is to know God more, done with asking him to remove this and that from my life. I can’t begin to even thank all of the people involved in the ministry.✝️🙏
Thank you Terry, one’s view of God determines how you live your life and react to different life circumstances. Having God as one’s anchor brings hope, patience and a sense of peace.
Great article and reminder for us to stand firm and to separate ourselves from the world. Especially in this last year with the toxic environments that surround us. It’s hard to keep our heads above water when faced with what the world calls our social “norms” that we see on TV or in daily living. Or even in family settings when the people we love most take a step towards what the world loves and a step away from our loving God. But I believe by the Grace of God and studying His word, He will help us navigate through these environments and lead us to live the life He wants for us. I am so thankful for BSF and the great leaders and am looking forward to studying Matthew this year.
Your encouragement is well taken and I will continue to believe that which cannot be seen or heard but which is readily accessible. All it takes is the faith that we have been so deliberately given to understand despite our own weakness.
Thanks for allowing me to see again that God is sovereign. God’s sovereignty was the overall theme I learned from the study of Genesis. God is in control; always has been and alway will be. I will trust in my God, my Lord and Savior, Jesus and the Holy Spirit that guides me daily.
This is insightful and edifying particularly for those that are struggling with the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. God is still on the Throne of mercy.
Thank you dear Terri and the BSF team for sharing this vital but true information. Yes, indeed, our God is an awe-inspiring God. He uses anyone (including me) for His vessel’s of honor. I am so grateful He selected me with no oral and written interview questions requirements before joining His vineyard to teach. What a privilege I have in Him.
Am truly inspired by this. Be blessed
Thank you Terri. Indeed just knowing and acknowledging who God is is precious. My husband of 38 years passed on. It was sudden and painful. But in the pain and loss I am comforted as I remember all that God is and know that ZZ believed in His Creator. I don’t fully understand but I God is real.
What an encouragement! Because He is Sovereign, we can fully rest knowing that He is working all things for our good! Jesus Christ, our very firm foundation!!
“So this is what the Sovereign Lord says: “See, I lay a stone in Zion, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone for a sure foundation; the one who relies on it will never be stricken with panic.”
Isaiah 28:16 NIV
Thank you! This is what I needed.
Me changing into HE through THE FATHER, SON AND THE HOLY SPIRIT is wonderful thougt. Thankyou sis.
I really enjoyed this Blog! Thank you for taking the time to write such an excellent piece, which is inspiring for me and glorifies God. What a beautiful child of God you are, Terri, reflecting His wisdom and love for us!
Great message ! Thank you so much Terri …☺️
“Because God can transform all things, you and I can change. We are not limited by our past and can grow to our potential. “
Praise the Lord !🙏🏻
Thank you for the encouraging word. I desire to cultivate a high view of God in everything
Every time we see people suffering drastic circumstances we all question our Lord-WHY? We question our own understanding. Our new minister from Joplin, Missouri said that watching the relief efforts after the Joplin tornado 15 years ago caused him to always trust God more. Resolving to take the high road as Jesus wants us to is truly living in Christ as an example to others.
These precious thoughts and words are just what I needed to read just now. I’m shifting my focus from what causes me anxiety to God who has me firmly in His grip. Thank you!
I am so encouraged by the statement , “ A high view of God is about getting the order right “.I must guard against circumstances and things that might diminish my view of God.
Thank you for the reminder Terri
Marvelous study! I love it. Love Him!
Thank you.
Thank you for reminding me of the attributes of God. I realized I have been very ‘me’ focused lately leading to feelings of anxiety and unrest. It’s time to refocus on God and His people. Good bless you and your precious family. Thank you for what you’re doing to further His Kingdom.
Thank you for sharing.
Thank you and Amen!!
Excellent thoughts of encouragement based on the character of God and His relationship to us,not just our feeble positive thoughts.
SO beautifully said and the timing is perfect for the trials and chaos in our world today. I will definitely share this with friends, family and anyone who is searching for real hope!
Thank you Terri. So good to see your name and face!
What a great reminder to us-always look for Who is God showing Himself to be in and through our circumstances. Focusing on His character changes our perspective. Thank you.
This was so needed and timely. Helped change my posture in prayer.
I enjoyed reading your blog. Especially the line: “Because God can transform all things, you and I can change. We are not limited by our past and can grow to our potential.” The examples of Joseph, Abraham, Job and Peter were a perfect fit for your comparisons of God’s usage of terrible circumstances for eventual good.
I am still looking to find my gift that I can share with the world, or with my neighbor. BSF has been an incredible experience for me to delve deep into His Word.
Terri, I am currently working on a course I plan to teach about women during WW2 and what they went through – many devout Christians – I keep wondering how they got through the torture, the devastation and knowing they were about to be executed.
Your ‘high view’ to me is the only thing that they could possibly have focused upon.
Thank you for sharing and helping me put this in perspective
Thank you, Terri, for your timely encouragement to follow in the footsteps of Abraham, Joseph, Job, Peter, Paul, Timothy, and countless others, holding fast to a high view of God! The past year has certainly cemented that in many lives, including mine! To Him alone be the glory: He is always and forever worthy of all praise!
Our BSF Board Member, woman of God Terri Burroughs have really allowed the Almighty to use her.
Her thought and the explanation of the word of God were so powerful and to the point for us to understand.
Thank you and I ask the wisdom of God to be upon your life always so that we will be blessed often with such inspirational messages from the word, Amen and God richly bless you and the whole family.
Thank you for this reminder – to ALWAYS have a high view of God, who God is, and to view all of life’s circumstances through Him.
Thanks for your inspiration.
I am looking forward for God to reveal more to me in Matthew as I have studied Matthew some 7 years ago.
Excellent – so well written – Thank you for reminding us to look up – Jesus is our peace in the midst of it all.
I love this reminder of all we learned during this very difficult time in our world! The study of Genesis was such an encouragement and full of hope during that time!
Amen !!! Thank you for encouraging me to trust in God’s unchanging nature and I can find hope, peace and joy in all uncertainties and circumstances of life of what I find I lack control . May me change to HE…
Amen
This is the hope and encouragement I Stand on each day as I surrender all cares and woes to God.
How often I myself think of Abraham and Job even David as examples of what God is doing for me as a Christian trying to change and grow in Christ. Well put. Thank you 🙏
Thank you Terri and bsf international for sharing this truths about God. I am in the middle of a marital crisis, and though I feel some times, all is lost, I cling to God for Mercy, grace and hope.
Thank you Terri, for this high view of God in our crises. God omnipotent, omnipresent, and omniscient. Miracle worker, constant companion and all-wise Lord of all. God bless you!
Thank you Terry, especially reminding us that we do not have to be lonely , take our troubles to our God who loves us and wants to listen to us
Thank you Terri , for sharing this high view of God. He is a firm foundation and anchor that weathers any storm.. God is Faithful.
Perfect time to read this. Thank you
“A high view of God is about getting the order right.” Amen!!! Thank you for this timely reminder.
Wonderful and inspiring!
Thank you for the perspective of Genesis ( which spoke to me greatly) as we head to Matthew!
God gives wisdom and discernment to His children if they sincerely, faithfully ask and obey. Wow! You certainly got a full measure of both and I am so grateful for your encouraging message. May God continue to bless through you!
Needed these precious words today! Thank you!
Your blog arrived with perfect timing. Great encouragement & reminder of just who God is.
Thank you for this blog. Daily I forget that my spiritual vision needs clarity and adjustment even cleansing (like our own eyes and glasses). If I’m not intentional about maintaining good vision I will not see clearly or accurately. True for my spiritual vision, God’s word brings light, clarity, and 20/20 for us. Praise God, He’s seeking us daily to do this, raising our eyes from our lowly selves to the wonderful high and mighty God of our ancestors. Thanks
Thank God who show us his real good disciple in today’s world. Thank you so much for the very encouraging story of a journey of life in viewing God’s most high in his sovereignty, his power and love to us his small and simple people. Have learnt to be peace, to have hope and joy in uncertainties and in all circumstances.
Thank you Terri. This is a good word.
Loved your thoughts that point us to the very high and perfect God that we serve who is personal, knowable, and relatable through Jesus Christ.
Bless you and your family!
As I was reading Terri’s post, I was thinking this is my Christian statement almost exactly. I am 73 and have been through truly awful experiences unjustified all my life. Yet, like a building block of my faith, I cling, every time, closer to God. I check myself each time and I have this huge smile on my face despite my circumstances. I live alone but I never never feel alone. As God repeatedly tells us in his word and by examples of his saving grace, we are never alone. He is always with us in all circumstances. My joy knowing this can never escape into thin air.
Thank you for the reminder of what is means to have a have a high view of God and its importance in our lives!
This is so perfect. I started a ministry in 2015. We serve families in the midst of a traumatic medical crisis, such as cancer. We witness much hurt, loss, and grief. Our Hope remains in God’s promises. I will share this encouraging blog. Thank you 🙂
I needed to hear this,thank you for sharing,am encouraged and challenged to always keep a high view of God no matter the circumstances
Thank you for the message. I was in a very bad accident. I’m in constant pain. I have tried to stay positive. Thanking God for being with me. Then I started to question why was I hit so hard stopped at a traffic light. The driver was looking at a beautiful rainbow. I was also looking towards. There were several cars involved; we were all stopped at the light. My back and ribs were broken. It’s been almos 9 months and I am still in pain. I needed to hear the message.💕💕💕🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻
Thank you for this encouragement. I need this today. So beautifully written.
I recently visited a friend in rehab at the hospital, after more than a month of struggle to breath through COVID. I was delighted that she recognized me and was able to converse with us for more than an hour. Later, her husband told us that “You know, people prayed and God answered each prayer.” We have found that Terri’s comments become more real to us daily. Thank you!
Uplifting, powerful, encouraging! He is my anchor in all the storms & craziness of these times we live in; it has made all the difference in these tumultuous times.
Thank you for your perception and encouragement to deliberately and daily put God at the center of my life – today will be a good day because of who God is!
Thank you Mary for this encouragement, indeed there are many trials,difficulties and not knowing what next ,but to rely and depend on God and experience the Hooe,peace and joy only HE is able to give. I am encouraged God bless you and bless BSF HQ.
Thank you, Terri, for these words. Today, , as a Stephen minister, I visited people in the hospital who were fighting for their lives and struggling with their faith. At times, I grappled with the right words to say and to pray with them. Our Hope is found in Jesus, His promises, His purposes and His power! Clinging to and claiming these truths is the only
way! Well said, Terri!
Loved the last sentence, Teri
What a.wonderful message from Terri this morning. It takes in the fear factor that we all stand against in watching our country.The 2nd Tim 1:7-12 is a gem to refresh us from day to day.Thank you, BSF!
Terri, Thank you so much for sharing the Gift GOD has given you. I will remember the reminders you gave us in this blog. So much of what has happened during this testing of our trust in OUR LORD in the mist of such disturbing and heartbreaking events this past year… Many of our loved ones and neighbors have been rocked to the core by what we have all witnessed in this unprecedented time. How Good of OUR Heavenly FATHER to use your wise words to encourage us all. BSF is always my go to when those all around me are unsure and many frightened about how things are unfolding. What a pleasure and a wonderful relief to hear of a Sister in Christ who is in our very midst speak clearly what we all must remember. Thank you Terri and I pray the LORD’S Richest Blessings on You and your loved ones as you continue to lift up our Lord and Savior, JESUS
How encouraging. Thanks for the reminder to REMEMBER the good lessons from the Genesis study with BSF last year. The only thing I would have said differently is the ending of this article. Through the Father, Son and Spirit (Triune God) of BOTH Genesis, Matthew, and all of the Bible we find a firm foundation; an anchor to weather any storm. Glory be to our Triune God.
I can totally understand why Apostle Paul said, “I am glad that I was afflicted!”
Had it NOT been for all of the afflictions in my life I would NOT know GOD’S heart!!! Amen!
Thank you for the refreshing encouragement based on our Genesis study!
Thank you Terri for this truth about looking to God in the midst of life’s difficulties. Today I will lift up my eyes to the One who made heaven and earth -He is where my help comes from.
Fantastic! So true. We just need to think on these things daily
Amen! Digging deep into God’s word has encouraged and lifted me out of despair so many times! He never fails us and the greatest message we can take to others is Trust in God, trust in Jesus! Give your cares to Him and rest in His love! Thank you for your words of wisdom!!
Very encouraging. I pray that I will develop a high view of God
I love the way you have brought out life in the book of Gey
Wow thank you for so many truths in what you wrote. It makes my day, though it teared me up!
Such a blessing to read through. Who is God? should be the first lens we read scripture through! Only then can we evaluate what, then, our response should be.
I love the simple & easily understood phrase about shifting our perspective from “me” to “He.”
This is so encouraging! Thank you!
Loved reading life Challenges
I don’t know how people go through life struggles without knowing God.
I pray for little children’s heart to be like sponges to learn and follow God.
Thank you for serving.
Love Jo Anne Roth
This blog/message is more than good. Thank you for sharing.
This was very thought provoking and enlightning. This is a great reminder to me to be in constant company of the Holy Spirit. To praise God for things we receive and to seek him when we are in doubt. Trust.
Did Mike or Mary receive a revelation? I did when I was in a coma from liver damage. God/Jesus was busy and talking to others. He was not directly paying attention to me but his message was clear that as he gives grace to us we are to respond to others with our grace w/o questioning God.
Thank you for lifting my soul and to remember to place My God in the center of my life for his ruling .
Needed this reminder today.
Thank you
Very encouraging and just what I needed to hear today. Challenged to put focus on He , not me- starting with today.
Yes. By believing in His promises and saying God is good always help to go thru my life and help me to be comforted. I lost my 21 yr old granddaughter early January. I could continue my leadership because God gives me strength. Praise God.
So glad I read this encouraging article! I really needed to hear this! Thank you Terri!
Thank you for reminding us to keep a high view of God.
Thank you for reminding me of the exciting truths I gained from my Genesis Bible Study this year and how everything in Gods Word is applicable to our life. I put the Genesis Study at the very top of my favorites. I retained so much from this study to apply to my life with my Lord and Savior Jesus & my relationships . Looking forward to Matthew this fall. So grateful to our Lord for providing the BSF Ministry.
Thank you, Terri, for your insightful and uplifting message. As I had the opportunity to study the book of Genesis through BSF for the second time, I realize more and more that the Bible is truly HIS story. God is the focus, our foundation, our Father, our all in all, as revealed through His Son and His Holy Spirit. The characters He calls and uses to display His Glory are not the “stars or heroes”. HE ALONE IS.
This gives me hope! I find all the support I need in my Saviour Jesus Christ! And I also know whom I have believed. Amen
Thank you Terri. This came when I was feeling defeated and low. A good reminder that my purpose and identity are found in God, not in this broken world.
I so needed to hear that reminder at this time. Thank you!
Being the created we cannot arrange life’s situations better than our God the Creator so we trust Him in all things.
I loved reading this because it reinforced the Scripture I pondered on yesterday, Isaiah 26:3. My steadfast trust in Him, no matter the circumstances, conveys to others that He is the source of peace in my life. He sits on the throne of my heart.
I thoroughly enjoyed this article. It helps me remember at ‘adjust to the center” which is God. It is easy for me to become distracted and involved in the busy-ness of life. But when I adjust to center and focus on God, I’m able to live in his purpose for me and experience hope and joy. Thank you so much for reminding me of this with your article.
How appropriate…In Matthew 8: 5-13, I just read about the Centurion, who had a ‘high view’ of Jesus!
Thank you for your beautiful uplifting words – just what I needed this day!
Thank you Terri. You have reminded me so beautifully that God is sovereign and is always in control and loved me and will always be with me in every circumstance.
Thank you Terri, you help me to gaze upon the love of God, the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit to have the living hope in our Lord Jesus Christ and Savior.
Blessings to your household and your daughter’s upcoming engagement. PTL
Very encouraging, to keep on trusting God whatever the circumstances are in my life.
Amen 🙏🏼 very uplifting and encouraging
Thanks for uplifting my day
A lot of We Can in the blog. Isn’t God great. We and mostly I need to really believe that and follow through each day. Thanks for the reminder. 😽☠️👳🏼♂️👩🏼🚒👍👌