THE LIVING GOD WILL STRENGTHEN YOU - Conclusion

 Later, likely while he was still a teenager, David visited the army camp of the Israelites. He found that soldiers were terrified because a giant Philistine named Goliath had come out to "taunt the battle of Israel." (1 Samuel 17:10, 11) The soldier's fear was a result of their focusing on the giant and the taunts they had heard on the battlefield. (Samuel 17:24, 25) David, however, viewed the situation from a different perspective. He viewed what was happening as a challenge, not merely against the battle line of Israel but against "the battle line of the living God." (1 Samuel 17:26) David had Jehovah foremost in mind. David trusted that the God who had helped him when he was a shepherd would help him again in this situation. Certain of God's backing, David faced Goliath and, of course, he won!  - 1 SAMUEL 17:45-51. 

We too can face trials successfully if we remember that the living God is ready to assist us. (Psalm 118:16) We can build our confidence in that fact by considering what he has done in the past. Read Bible accounts that remind you of how Jehovah saved his worshippers. (Isaiah 37:17, 33-37) Also, consider reports on our jw.org website that illustrate how Jehovah has supported our brothers and sisters in modern times. Furthermore, recall times when Jehovah has acted in your behalf. Do not worry if you cannot point to some spectacular experience, such as fighting off a bear or a lion. Why not? The fact is, Jehovah has been involved in your life! He has drawn you into a relationship with him. (John 6:44) Even now, it is only thanks to his help that you are still in the truth. Why not ask him to help you to remember moments when he answered your prayers, gave you support at just the right time, or sustained you through a difficult situation? Reflecting on such experiences will strengthen your conviction that Jehovah will continue to act in your behalf.

Seeing Jehovah as a living Person will allow us to view our trials properly. How so? We begin to see our trials as part of a bigger issue between Jehovah and Satan. The Devil claims that when we suffer hardship, we will abandon Jehovah. (Job 1:10, 11; read Proverbs 27:11.) But when we deal with our trials successfully, we show our love for Jehovah and prove the Devil a liar. Are you facing government opposition, economic hardship, negative responses to your preaching, or some other trial? If so, remember that your situation gives you an opportunity to make Jehovah's heart rejoice. Remember too, that he will never let you be tested beyond your limits. (1 Corinthians 10:13) He will give you the strength to endure.

Next time: THE LIVING GOD WILL REWARD YOU

From the jw.org publications