Theme for the month: He can. . .

By Benescke Janse van Rensburg

Daniel was thrown into the lion's den; Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego in the fiery furnace. Esther arrived uninvited at the king. Elijah was the only believer on Mount Carmel, praying for fire to ascend from heaven. And David took on the giant, Goliath.

It’s great to read the end of these stories. Daniel survived the lion’s den because God locked their mouths. Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, escaped without a scorched hair from the fiery furnace. Esther managed to save the Jewish people. Elijah experienced how God sent fire from heaven. And David slew the giant. However, we easily forget that all these people risked their lives. They had courage, but they definitely also struggled with those "what if" thoughts of fear just before the breakthrough. What if ... things did not pan out as they hoped it would? It is, however, these people’s faith and trust in God which allowed them to triumph over the “what if” thoughts.

In Hebrews 11:1 we read, "Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and the evidence of things not seen." And Genesis 18:14, we read: "Is anything too hard for the Lord?”And we know the answer is no.

We all experience seasons in which it feels as if we are standing with our backs against the wall. Perhaps today you are trusting God for a supernatural breakthrough? It may be for the salvation of your child, a financial breakthrough, a new job, a house of your own, the restoration of your marriage or maybe your own or a loved one's healing? The enemy will always try to trap you in the “what if” thoughts of fear. It is only faith and hope in God that will help you triumph over these thoughts.

This month I would like us to focus on God - not just His ability, but mostly who He is. He never changes and is always able to strengthen us when fear or doubt tries to overtake us. Let’s trust Him completely. He might just surprise us, just as He did for Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, Esther, Elijah and David. Why? Because HE CAN.

Father God, thank you that nothing is impossible for you. I praise you for who You are and not just for what You can do for me. Please strengthen me when the "what if" thoughts of fear try to overwhelm me. I ask this in the Name of Jesus Christ. Amen.

• Assignment for today: Write down three characteristics of God that stand out to you. Thank Him for that.