A Price to Pay

Inflation and sticker shock have hit deep. You've seen the effect at the grocery store, the gas station, and, it's widespread, probably everywhere you have shopped.    

It's hard to believe, isn't it, that the things you are accustomed to buying now take a much bigger chunk out of your wallet?    
 
We're living in a changing economy that affects everyone, no matter their socioeconomic status. It's disappointing, upsetting, and frustrating.  

In the grand scheme of things, what we are experiencing is yet another bump in the road (albeit a large one). Not to minimize the severity of what is happening, but we must remember a truth: we were never guaranteed to live a life free from trials or tribulations.    

Numerous Bible verses relate to this topic. One verse, from John 16:33, is in Jesus words:    
          "In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”

We might grumble about the price we have to pay for the things we need, but God has us covered in a much bigger way. His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, paid the greatest price of all. He gave up His life on the cross to deliver us from sin. 
 
Thanks be to God for His love and grace. It is His gift to us--something we will never need to pay for--and it is free for the asking.     
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1 Peter 4:12-14 – “Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice insofar as you share Christ’s sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed. If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you.”

2 Corinthians 12:10 – “For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.” 

Prayer for today: Dear Lord in Heaven, Today I pray for every person reading this blog. You know their needs, Lord. Uplift them and keep them secure in your love. I also pray for those suffering due to the  economy, that their needs may be met. Father, I also pray for those who do not yet know you, that they may discover your love for them and the salvation that waits for them through Your Son, Jesus Christ. - Amen. 
(Photo courtesy of Vecteezy)

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