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Palitha Jayasooriya

Palitha Jayasooriya is an Executive/Preaching Pastor of the People's Church (Assembly of God) in Colombo, Sri Lanka. He counts over 20 years of experience as a Radio Broadcaster with the Sri Lanka Broadcasting Corporation and is the author of The Preaching Platform. Palitha has been married to Regina for 13 years and they are blessed with two sons, Sheriah (12) and Sheramiah (10).

Articles

Turbulent Waters Can Be Crossed By Faith

by Palitha Jayasooriya
written by Palitha Jayasooriya

Introduction on Turbulent Waters:

In 1969, Reggae singer Jimmy Cliff recorded a song titled, ‘Many Rivers To Cross’. Jimmy Cliff mentioned that the song was birthed out of the frustration and helplessness he felt after moving from Jamaica to the UK. The feelings came about because unlike what he had expected, nothing significant seemed to be happening in his career at that time.

The lyrics go like this:

Many rivers to cross
But I can’t seem to find my way over
Wandering I am lost
As I travel along the white cliffs of Dover

Are you feeling like that today? Surrounded by turbulent waters that you can’t seem to cross? It is a fact that many people are facing turbulent waters today, especially with the ripple effects of COVID-19. In the midst of such challenges, the Word of God gives us great hope and assurance. In fact, the Bible encourages us to trust Him completely as we face the turbulent waters of life.

Here are 3 thoughts from the Bible that encourage us to have hope when surrounded by turbulent waters.

1. Turbulent waters cannot drown us

In Isaiah 43:2, the Lord gives great assurance about His protection on His children as they face deep, turbulent waters. He says, “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you.” (Isaiah 43:2) What a great encouragement it is to know that He will not let us drown or be swept away when confronted by what the scripture calls ‘rivers of difficulty’ (Refer Isaiah 43:2 NLT).

Illustration:

The Founder Pastor of People’s Church in Colombo, Sri Lanka, Dr. Colton Wickramaratne was once confronted by some hostile villagers at a swirling river. They threatened to throw him into the river unless he agreed to stop preaching the message of Jesus. Pastor Colton firmly stood for his faith, however, and for a moment it looked like the threat would be carried out. At that critical moment, the Lord intervened and although the villagers harassed him, the deadly threat was not carried out.

2. Jesus speaks to turbulent waters

In Mark 4:35-41, the disciples of Jesus probably faced the worst storm they had ever encountered. Calling on all their experience as seamen, they were desperately looking for an escape route. But escape seemed out of their grasp as “the waves broke over the boat so that it was nearly swamped.” (Mark 4:37) It was then that they remembered that Jesus was in the boat, and they cried out to Him for help. What was Jesus’ response? He simply spoke to the boisterous winds and waves and the storm subsided immediately (Mark 4:39).

Similarly, Jesus is waiting to speak into your storm today. His words of authority and power will calm your storm and bring you safely to the shore. No matter how tough your situation may be, the Bible tells us, “Nothing is impossible with God.” (Luke 1:37)

Illustration:

My older brother once faced a huge storm in his workplace to which there seemed no human help possible. However, as he sought the Lord in prayer for a breakthrough, Jesus spoke into his situation. As he followed through on what the Lord revealed, the huge challenge was solved in a miraculous way! Yes, Jesus still speaks to turbulent waters.

3. Turbulent waters are pushed back by faith

In Joshua chapter 3, the people of Israel were about to cross the Jordan River to enter the promised land. It was the big moment they had been waiting for with much expectancy. However, Joshua 3:15 tells us that the river was at flood stage at that time. This would have probably meant that attempting to cross over would be like entering into a potentially deadly death-trap.

Joshua and his leaders, including the priests, however, took a step of great faith. As the priests carrying the ark stepped into the Jordan, “the water from upstream stopped flowing.” (Joshua 3:16) As a result, a dry path was opened up for the Israelites to cross over safely to the other side (Joshua 3:17). Similarly, we can push back the turbulent waters the evil one brings against us through steps of faith. As we step into the water by faith, the Lord will open a path for us to find victory.

Closing:

So my friend, if you are facing turbulent waters right now, hold on to the promises of God and stand firm in your faith. As you do so, Jesus will speak to the waves, “Quiet! Be still!” (Mark 4:39)

 

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ArticlesFaith

Psalm 91: Finding Hope During Times Of Trouble

by Palitha Jayasooriya
written by Palitha Jayasooriya

With the Coronavirus sweeping across almost all borders, fear and anxiety have gripped hearts around the world. No one seems safe anymore and everyone is searching for methods of protection. In times of crisis, however, the children of God, as it has happened right through history, can find encouragement and comfort through the promises of God. One such passage people often turn to for comfort is Psalm 91.

Psalm 91 Section 1: (Verses 1-8)

Verses 1-4 of the Psalm illustrate at least 7 powerful symbols of God’s protection. They are;

a) His Shelter – We hear of many shelters today including nuclear shelters, bomb shelters, and doomsday shelters. We may soon even hear of virus shelters. Can we reflect on God’s shelter as well?

b) His Shadow – Similar to a shade that protects from the blazing sun or torrential rain.

c) A Refuge – The Longman Dictionary describes ‘Refuge’ as “A place that provides protection or shelter from danger”.

d) A Fortress – Providing protection to a city

e) His Wings – Resembling the tenderness with which a mother bird protects her offspring

f) A Shield – Used in times of war and which can be used now, when the enemy fires his darts at us. We are right now in the middle of a very different but dangerous war.

g) Rampart – I am reminded of the walls of the historic fort built in the city of Galle, in my country Sri Lanka, hundreds of years ago. They still stand firm today and the fort is a much-visited heritage site.

As we consider the 7 symbols of protection shown above, let’s be truly encouraged by the defense mechanisms the Lord has given us. Why then, should we allow fear and anxiety to overwhelm us?

Two Threats:

Verses 3 and 5-6, show us the stark reality of two threats we face in life; the threat from enemies (fowler’s snare and arrows) and the terror of disease epidemics (pestilence and plagues). However, we are assured once again of God’s protection at all times of the day (refer words like night, day, darkness, midday). This protection is further emphasized in verse 7 of Psalm 91.

As I was reflecting on verse 7 and the reference to ‘thousand and ten thousand falling’, it seemed so very similar to what we are experiencing around the world today. However, at this crucial time, I would like to suggest that we look at things from a different perspective.

Joshua 23;10 says, ”One of you routs a thousand, because the Lord your God fights for you, just as He promised”. Jesus also said, “Again, I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything you ask for, it will be done for you by my Father in Heaven.” (Matthew 18:19) While the passage this verse is found in may relate primarily to sorting out sin and relationship problems in the church, it also tells us that we can find God’s help and guidance, whenever we join together in agreement in prayer.

Psalm 91 Section 2: (Verses 9-16)

As mentioned earlier in this article, verses 9-10 of Psalm 91, correspond with verses 1-2. They bring reassurance of God’s protection. That protection is further emphasized in verses 11-12 through the ministry of His holy angels. The New International Bible Commentary says, “God’s tender care is such that He even supplies a celestial bodyguard around the believer, who carry him along the rock-strewn road” (Pages 619-620).

Some believe that Psalm 91 is also a Messianic Psalm, partly because satan quoted verses 11-12 to Jesus during His temptations (Luke 4:10-11). Jesus however, refused to be drawn into temptation and rebuked Satan with scripture. Jesus would most probably have ended up as a celebrity if He had followed Satan’s advice and thrown Himself down from the highest point of the temple. He refused however because He only wanted to fulfill God’s will.

To Consider:

In these difficult times, let’s be grounded in the promises of God’s Holy Word and let’s share His powerful Word wherever we can. Let’s also humble ourselves in His presence and desire to honor Him in every way.

Verses 13 of the Psalm brings up the challenge of wild beasts as reflected in the imagery of the ferocity of a lion and the poison of a cobra. This is illustrated again in verse 13 through the references to a ‘great lion’ and ‘the serpent’. It’s good to remind ourselves that “the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour” (1 Peter 5:8). But the battle is won!

The Blessing:

In the final 3 verses of Psalm 91, God’s blessings proclaimed on the people. Eight such blessings assured for those who love the Lord (verse 14), acknowledge His name (verse 14), and call upon Him (verse 15). They are:

a) “I will rescue him” (14)
b) “I will protect him” (14)
c) “I Will answer him” (15)
d) “I will be with him in trouble” (15)
e) “I Will deliver him” (15)
f) (I will) honor him” (15)
g) “With long life will I satisfy him” (16)
h) “(I will) show him my salvation” (16)

Closing:

In closing, I pray that the thoughts in this article will encourage you and give you new hope today. That they will help you face life wherever you are, in the midst of the difficult challenges around. However, please also take all necessary precautions as advised by the authorities regarding COVID-19.

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Video

Delays are Divine Appointments

by Palitha Jayasooriya
written by Palitha Jayasooriya

I once heard a pastor mention that he waited six long years to win the affection of his future wife. The Founding Pastor of People’s Church in Sri Lanka, Pastor Colton Wickramaratne received a vision from God in 1957 about his future ministry. He had to persevere through many delays and challenges before the large vision became a reality.

When I began my career in radio broadcasting, I waited three years to get a proper break on the radio station. I almost quit, but thankfully God came through at the right time and my broadcasting career expanded thereafter. A number of couples I know prayed earnestly for a child for many years before the prayer was answered.

All these stories have one common thread; delay.

Are you troubled about an answer to a prayer being delayed in your life? Have you almost given up? Do you feel like God is denying you His blessing?

No one likes delays. We live in an instant world, filled with instant food, instant noodles, online banking, quick promotions, quick turnovers and rapid solutions. Any delay therefore, is uncomfortable. God however, has His own timing in our lives and He can turn the delays into ‘Divine Appointments’. His delays are not denials. Through the delay, He is building our faith and our character.

Therefore trust God through the delays of your life. God’s delays are not denials.

Any delay can lead to a divine appointment. Any divine appointment will bring divine blessing.

From hopelessness to prominence

This short video is based around the book of Esther. It shows us that the delays in our life can be turned by the Lord into divine appointments. It covers the life of Mordecai and how God raised him from a hopeless place to a position of prominence. 

Delays can be Divine Appointments

Prayer


Lord, help me to trust you through the delays in my life. May I have the faith to believe that a delay does not mean that you have not heard my cry. I ask this In Jesus’ name. Amen!

Closing Thought

God is never too early; He’s never too late; He’s always on time!

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Faith

Christmas: A Season For Dreams

by Palitha Jayasooriya
written by Palitha Jayasooriya

A lady told her husband that she had dreamed that he had bought her a diamond necklace for Christmas! The husband responded positively to her dream by bringing her a beautifully wrapped gift. As she eagerly tore open the wrapping to see her diamond necklace, all she found was a little book. It was titled, How To Interpret Your Dreams!

Christmas is a difficult period for a lot of people, as they look back over the year, they may see many dreams that have not been fulfilled. The present time might also bring difficulties. It may be discouraging, with shortages of finances and food, and other difficulties such as a death in the family. It is well known that a lot of people go through depression in December and some even commit suicide. They lost hope because the celebratory Christmas spirit around them somehow seems to have eluded them. Country legend Merle Haggard sings, “If we make it through December, everything is gonna be alright I know.” The song speaks about a father who has just lost his job at the factory and he’s wondering how he can make Christmas special for his little daughter.

David Wilkerson once said, “Never underestimate the power of a dream.” As I was studying the Christmas story in the scriptures, it struck me how many times, dreams and visions are mentioned around this great event. I would like to share four types of dreams God gave around the time of our Lord’s birth and His early days. I believe He can minister to you in one or more of these areas:

1) A dream of assurance:

When Joseph received the news of Mary’s pregnancy, he must have been a shattered man! He also must have felt deeply rejected by the love of his life. His world was turned upside down! But, in his moment of despair, God gave him a dream of assurance (Matthew 1:20). An angel appeared in a dream and said “Joseph …, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife…”. As a result, Joseph went from the scenario of a possible separation, to being the earthly father of the Messiah!

Luke tells us that not only Joseph, but Mary also received a prophetic assurance through Elizabeth (See Luke 1:42).

Maybe you are facing Christmas, feeling shattered or rejected, due to prevailing circumstances in your life. Be encouraged to know that, as He did for Joseph, God can give you, “A dream of assurance” this Christmas.

In 2013, my world was shattered overnight when I noticed something was wrong with my vision. Upon checking it out, I found that the retina on my left eye had detached and that the vision on that eye was at its lowest. A surgeon I consulted told me that I needed immediate surgery and as I prepared for the surgery with a lot of concern, God gave me assurance that He would bring me through. It came through the following lyrics of the well loved song “In Christ Alone”:

“From life’s first cry to final breath, Jesus commands my destiny, No power of hell, no scheme of man, can ever pluck me from His hand”

Thankfully, through God’s unfailing grace and power and the skill of the surgeon, I came through the crisis. I’m doing well, six years later, with most of my vision restored. God has a dream of assurance for you.

2) A dream of warning

In Matthew 2:12,  we are told that the wise men were warned in a dream “not to go back to Herod”, and in Matthew 2:13, Joseph was warned in a dream to take his family and leave for Egypt. Once again, God was speaking through dreams!

Some of us might need a warning from the Lord during the season. Maybe we are thinking of making a poor decision, or the path we are taking is going to be detrimental. Or could it be that He’s warning us about a sin that can cause damage to us and our family? Have you heard the saying: “If God bolts a door, don’t try to jump in through a window”? He may well be telling you to go another way. As much as the GPS in your vehicle re-routes you when you take a wrong turn, could God be re-routing the direction you are traveling in. If so, be sensitive to the voice of the Holy Spirit.

Many years ago, I read in a magazine about a young lady who had placed herself in a tempting situation on Christmas eve.  Her decision could have led to sin. It just so happened that there was a church down the adjoining lane and the Pastor had insisted that the cross in the church be lit up every evening. As this young lady was facing this temptation, the light on the cross was suddenly switched on, and as the light cut through the night mist and illuminated the cross, she realized that God was sending her a warning. She got out of that situation really quickly and saved herself from what could have been a bad decision.

Is God giving you a dream of warning this Christmas season?

3) A dream of guidance:

Everyone needs guidance, not only during the Christmas season, but also to face the New Year that is fast approaching. We need guidance as individuals, as families and even as churches and ministries. Let’s remember that guidance, through dreams, was very much a part of the Christmas story and the events that followed!

For instance, Joseph was guided to Egypt for safety, through a dream (See Matthew 2:13), then guided back to Israel after Herod’s death through a dream (See Matthew 2:19). Thereafter he received guidance to settle down in Nazareth, also in a dream (See Matthew 2:22-23)! Much of this “dreamy” guidance was also fulfilling prophecies regarding the Messiah!

Like Joseph, for those who may feel that God’s guidance has maybe taken you through some rough paths, it’s good to remind ourselves that, “If God takes us on stony paths, He will give us strong shoes!”

Apparently, when Lewis Redner was asked to compose a melody for “O Little Town of Bethlehem”, for a church program, no inspiration came to him. However, on the night before the event, he had what seemed like a dream. He mentioned, “I was roused out of my sleep, late in the night, by an angelic strain whispering in my ear.” Lewis Redner awoke immediately and wrote down the melody line he had heard in his dream and the rest is history! He called it “a gift from heaven”.

God wants to give you a dream of guidance at Christmastime. Part of that guidance may involve being a blessing to others during the season.

4) A dream (vision) of the miraculous:

Two miraculous births happened around the same time. One began with the announcement of the pregnancy of Elizabeth (See Luke 1:13), who was barren and old (See Luke 1:7). The news came through an angelic visitation and it led to the birth of John. The other of course, was the miraculous birth of the Lord Jesus, also revealed through an angelic visitation (See Luke 1:26-35)! In both instances, God did the impossible for “Nothing is impossible with God!” (Luke 1;37)

Someone said, “The day of miracles is not past because the God of miracles is still present.”

So many people are in need of a miraculous touch from the Lord. Let’s lift them up to the Lord in prayer at Christmastime, knowing that we too can experience the same.

Let’s also not forget that the birth of the Lord Jesus was also a miraculous gift from God for the sins of the entire world. Truly, “No gift is more needed by a dying world than a life-giving Savior!”

So, trust God for a dream of the miraculous this Christmas season.

In closing, let me encourage you to look to the Lord for one or more of these dreams during December. It may be a dream of assurance, a dream of warning, a dream of guidance or a dream of the miraculous. As God reveals himself to you, be sure to move according to His Word.

Have a blessed Christmas!

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Faith

Delays Don’t Mean Denials: Understanding Divine Appointments

by Palitha Jayasooriya
written by Palitha Jayasooriya

Delays Don’t Mean Denials

I once heard a pastor say that he waited six long years to win the affection of his future wife. The leader of our church, Colton Wickramaratne received a vision from God in 1957 about his future ministry. He persevered through many delays and challenges before his vision became a reality. When I began my career in radio broadcasting, I waited three years to get a break on the station. I almost quit, but thankfully God came through. Some couples I know prayed earnestly for a child for many years before their prayers were answered. All these stories show that delays don’t mean denials (they are Divine Appointments).

Are you troubled about an answer to a prayer being delayed in your life? Have you almost given up? Do you feel like God is denying you His blessing?

No one likes delays. We live in an instant world, filled with instant food, instant noodles, online banking, quick promotions, quick turnovers and rapid solutions. Any delay therefore, is uncomfortable. God however, has His own timing in our lives and He can ensure that a delay doesn’t mean a denial. His delays will lead to ‘Divine Appointments’. Through the delay, He will build our faith and our character.

Delays Don’t Mean Denials

In the book of Esther, we read about how Mordecai uncovered an assassination plot on Xerxes, the King of a mighty empire (2:21-23). As he revealed the details of the plot on the king through Esther, the conspirators were apprehended and the king’s life was saved. What was Mordecai’s reward? NOTHING! He was forgotten. The only reward he got was that his name was recorded in the Chronicles of the King (verse 23). An action that would have great significance later.

What about you? Do you feel forgotten today?

Mordecai, like any normal man I’m sure, would have been rather disappointed. Wouldn’t we, if we had helped save the life of our nation’s leader? But, in spite of what seemed like a denial, Mordecai kept serving faithfully.

At a later date, Mordecai found himself in a precarious situation. He was to be hanged on a large gallows the following day, due to a conspiracy by a wicked official named Haman, God, however, decided that the time for delay was over.

God’s Intervention

It so happened that according to chapter 6:1, the king couldn’t sleep that night. (Perhaps because the construction of the gallows created a loud din!) Since there was no TV for the king to watch a reality show, no radio to listen to his favorite talk show or no other entertainment available at that time of night, the best thing he could do was to read the chronicles about his exploits (6:1).

The record of his rule was therefore read to him. As the officials started reading, it was no coincidence that they turned to the story of how Mordecai had saved the King’s life (verse 2). To his horror, the King then found out from his officials that no reward had been given to Mordecai (verse 3).

Man may forget, but God never forgets! His delays don’t mean denials!

 Immediately, the king planned a rewards scheme for Mordecai (verses 4-11). Of all people, Haman was chosen to do the honors! As a result, not only Mordecai’s life but the entire Jewish race was eventually saved from possible destruction! The delay was not a denial but a ‘Divine Appointment’. Mordecai ended up being appointed to the second highest position in the empire.

Trust God therefore through the delays of your life. God’s delays don’t mean denials.

 Prayer – Lord, help me to trust You through the delays in my life. May I have the faith to believe that delays don’t mean denials of my request. I ask this In Jesus’ name. Amen!

Closing Thought – God is never too early; He’s never too late; He’s always on time! His delays are not a denial.

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A Secure Future
Faith

A Secure Future (in an Insecure World)

by Palitha Jayasooriya
written by Palitha Jayasooriya

In an increasingly insecure world, people are living in tension and anxiety. Horrific scenes of death and destruction can be seen every day.  However, in such troubled times, the child of God can rest assured that we have a secure future prepared by God’s hand.

In John 14, the disciples of Jesus were troubled because He had hinted that He would be leaving them soon (John 13:31-38). Although they couldn’t grasp all that Jesus meant, what they heard was enough to get their stress levels to rise rapidly.

In the midst of this scenario, the Lord highlighted the following powerful facts to bring reassurance to their troubled hearts.

He prepares a place for us

He is planning a secure future for us by preparing a place for us (John 14:2)

When we take a journey, we generally like to have proper accommodation at our destination. If not, we may even postpone our trip for another day. How encouraging it is to know that the Lord has prepared a better place for us! The scriptures show us that it will be something beyond our present imagination and vision!

“No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love Him.” (1 Corinthians 2:9)

He’s coming back for us

He is coming back for His children (John 14:3)

The Second Coming of Jesus is mentioned hundreds of times in the Bible. That’s a lot of scripture! Since Jesus has been true to all His promises so far, we can be assured that He will be more than true to this one as well!! When that great event takes place, He will receive us to Himself, to enjoy His blessings forever!

Someone said, ‘We do not look for the undertaker, but for the uppertaker!’

It is said that the territory held by a famous general in World War II was overrun by enemy forces. As he departed with his soldiers, he made a promise to the people that he would come back to liberate them soon. They held on to that promise and true to his word, the general did return with his army to liberate the land from the opposing forces.

If a human general could fulfil his promise so effectively, how much more would the King of Kings do so? Are you waiting in anticipation for the day in which the clouds will be rolled back and our Savior will appear in all His glory?

He gives peace to troubled hearts

He will lead us to a secure future by giving peace to our troubled hearts (John 14:27)

God has promised to give us a peace that passes all understanding. Therefore, the Apostle Paul says, “Do not be anxious about anything…” (Philippians 4:6). The Lord Jesus Himself told the disciples, “Peace I leave with you; My peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” (John 14:27). His peace will sustain us in the tumultuous times ahead!

When faced with an unbearable tragedy that involved untimely deaths in the family, Tom Dorsey, in the midst of heartbreak and a shattered world, penned down some lyrics that have touched thousands of lives over the years.

Through the storm / through the night / lead me on to the Light/ Take my hand / Precious Lord / lead me home.

Let’s remember that the Lord Jesus is coming back to take us to a prepared place. Till then, His peace and grace will sustain us. We truly have a secure future!

Prayer – Lord, may Your peace and the promise of Your return sustain me in these troubled times. Amen.

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favor
Faith

Three Thoughts on God’s Favour

by Palitha Jayasooriya
written by Palitha Jayasooriya

Receive God’s Favor

“You crown the year with a bountiful harvest; even the hard pathways overflow with abundance.” (Psalm 65:11).

What a powerful verse that clearly shows God’s favor is available to all believers! Psalm 65 is considered a psalm of praise and thanksgiving to God for His goodness. It was apparently sung after the spring rains came in to water and refresh the earth and was even more meaningful after a particularly bad dry season.  I would like to share three thoughts about God’s favor from this psalm.

1. GOD PLACES A CROWN OF FAVOR ON THE YEAR

A crown is a special and glittering insignia worn by special people like kings, queens, emperors and other royalty. At sporting events in Biblical times, sometimes a crown or something that resembled it was given to the winners. In present-day beauty contests too, the winner is given a crown. We also crown people with titles like King of Rock and Roll (Elvis Presley), and King of Pop (Michael Jackson). But mostly, crowns are identified with royalty. Of course, we know only too well that human crowns fall off after a season.

The Bible identifies God’s people as a Royal Priesthood, crowned by God Himself! Psalm 65:11 as we read, says that ‘God crowns the year’. Yes, His grace will crown every day we face in the coming year with its challenges!

Here are some of the crowns mentioned in the Bible. In 2 Timothy 4:8, Paul, possibly remembering the then famous Isthmian Games, speaks about a ‘crown of righteousness’, while in James 1:12, we read about the ‘crown of life’. Isaiah 61:3 talks about a ‘crown of beauty’ and 1 Corinthians 9:25, reminds us about an ‘eternal crown’. Peter, in his first epistle tells us about a ‘crown of glory’ (1 Peter 5:4) and Isaiah 51:11 says, ‘Everlasting joy will crown their (believers) heads’.

Let’s now look at the ‘crown’ Psalm 65:11 is talking about.

2. THE CROWN OF GOD’S FAVOR IS A BOUNTIFUL HARVEST

The NKJV translates it as ‘His Goodness’.

My prayer for you is that God’s favour will bring you a ‘bountiful harvest’.What a comfort it is to know that His ‘Goodness’ is upon us. So, let’s look at some of the acts of God’s ‘Goodness’, shown in this Psalm, which will lead to a ‘bountiful harvest’.

  • God answers our prayers (verse 2)
  • He forgives our sin (3)
  • Fills us with the good things of His house (4)
  • He answers with awesome deeds (5)
  • Protects us (5-7)
  • He does wonders (8)
  • And He sends rain and makes the land fertile as the climax to a year of abundant blessing (9-13). This was of great importance in the agricultural setting and community in which this Psalm was written.

As a  man of God once said, “You may lack the fastest, the finest and the latest, but you won’t lack what is needed!”

Are you ready to prepare yourself for a ‘bountiful harvest’ through God’s ‘goodness’?!!

3. GOD’S FAVOR IS SEEN EVEN IN THE HARD PLACES

  “Even the hard pathways overflow with abundance”.

No doubt, you and I will have to face some, if not many ‘hard pathways’ at some point. It’s part of life. But, the Psalmist says, “Even the hard pathways overflow with abundance”. Yet again, this statement must be looked at in the agricultural setting in which it was written. God’s abundance is spoken of here, even in the most difficult moments or seasons.

Someone said, “If God takes us on stony paths, He will fix us with strong shoes!”

This Psalm speaks about abundance, after a dry season. Maybe you have been through a ‘dry season’ for you; for your ministry. If so, can we believe together that you will see ‘God’s abundance overflowing in the hard pathways’?

CONCLUSION

As we prepare our hearts to see Psalm 65:11 fulfilled in the days ahead and to receive God’s favor, let’s remember that on our part, we need to give the Lord Jesus the first place in every area of our life. Here is some advice I once came across in a bulletin.

“To achieve spiritual success, do not forget to give God the first hour of the day, the first day of the week, the first part of every paycheck, the first consideration in every decision, and the first place in your heart.” That’s a great way to live.

May you receive ‘A crown of goodness and a bountiful harvest’, and may you find ‘His abundance overflowing even in the hard pathways’. May you see God’s favor upon you and your family.

 

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Victory
Faith

4 Steps to Victory Against Overwhelming Odds

by Palitha Jayasooriya
written by Palitha Jayasooriya

I often pray with people battling heavy odds, like cancer, children’s health issues, relationship problems, addictions, emotional distress and many other issues. They all feel overwhelmed and discouraged; that the odds were stacked against them. What about you? Are you struggling against overwhelming odds today?

In 2 Chronicles 20, we find that a coalition of armies had come against King Jehoshaphat and the nation of Judah. It was a strong, vast army (verse 2-4) that brought a sense of terror upon the people. King Jehoshaphat realizing the seriousness of the challenge before him, cried in desperation, “We have no power to face this vast army that is attacking us.  We do not know what to do…” (verse 12). Maybe you too are saying ‘I don’t know what to do’?

However, God brought about an amazing victory for Judah. We too can learn how to find victory against overwhelming odds by looking at four responses shown by King Jehoshaphat.

1.Resolve to trust God completely in prayer:

Prayer is the greatest weapon we have as God’s children. It is the powerful key that gives us victory over oppression. A famous quote by Alfred Lord Tennyson says, “More things are wrought by prayer than this world dreams of.” So, when facing overwhelming odds and when you may not even feel like praying, there is only one thing to do. Keep on praying (and encourage others to intercede for you)!

Jehoshaphat inquired of the Lord and proclaimed a fast throughout the land. The people responded in unison as the King cried out to God at the temple (verse 3-5). Jehoshaphat said, “Power and might are in Your hand, and no one can withstand You. …You will hear us and save us. … Our eyes are upon You.” (verses 6 -12). He was depending completely on God’s strength!

God sometimes permits staggering odds to come against us to drive us to our knees in prayer. Remember these words from the hymn, ‘What a friend we have in Jesus’ by Joseph Scriven.

Oh, what peace we often forfeit
Oh, what needless pain we bear
All because we do not carry
Everything to God in prayer

2. Receive a specific word for the situation

Verse 14 -17 tells us that the Prophet Jahaziel, under the anointing of God’s Spirit, began to prophesy over the situation. He said, “Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. … stand firm and see the deliverance the Lord will give you.”

How true is the following quote I came across, although I’m not sure who penned it. It says, “What a nation needs more than anything else is not a Christian ruler in the palace, but a Christian prophet within earshot.” We need men like Jahaziel to speak to our rulers and our nations.

God has a specific prophetic word for every challenge we face; especially when overwhelming odds are against us.  It can come through a scripture, a song, a sermon, a prayer, wise counsel or a prophetic word and once we receive such a specific word from God, we should hold on to it. We should not give up till the victory is final (verse 20).

3. Realize the battle is the Lord’s

In verse 17, the Prophet Jahaziel said, “You will not have to fight this battle. Take up your positions; stand firm and see the deliverance the Lord will give you, O Judah and Jerusalem.” He further emphasized “the battle is not yours, but God’s” (verse 15).  Therefore, realize that the Lord is fighting for you and that the banner of ‘Jehovah Nissi’ is always over His children.

I recently heard a testimony from a lady who had been praying for a child for 19 years. She had seen every available doctor and tried everything possible to conceive. After 13 years of disappointment, she decided that she would not seek medical help any further and only trust the Lord thereafter for a miracle. Around six years later she gave birth to a son who is now in his twenties! The battle is the Lord’s.

4. Meditate on God’s unfailing love through worship

As the people of Judah began to fall down in worship before Him with a loud voice (verse 18-19), God began a mighty work. When the army went out for battle the following morning,  Jehoshaphat “appointed men to sing to the Lord and to praise Him for the splendor of His holiness.” (Verse 21).  In fact it was this worship team, and not the battle-hardened soldiers, that were placed at the head of the army. Seeing this strange phenomenon, the enemy may have been laughing their sides out!

What were the singers focusing on? It was on a well known worship refrain that spoke about God’s enduring love and said, “Give thanks to the Lord, for His love endures forever.” (Verse 21).

As the worship team sang about His unfailing love, the Lord brought disarray and confusion to the enemy’s camp. The enemy armies began to annihilate each other and an amazing victory unfolded (verse 22-23). As you stand against overwhelming odds, will you too meditate on God’s unfailing love which endures forever? He will come through for you, often in unexpected ways, for His love never fails!

As we follow the four steps shown above, God will surely give us victory against the overwhelming odds that are before us.

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Restored From Shame Through God’s Grace

by Palitha Jayasooriya
written by Palitha Jayasooriya

Friend, are you carrying any shame or reproach from your past, maybe from your youth? Is it about failure as a parent or as a spouse? Is it in some other area of your life? Does the recent past bring up memories of being humiliated and disgraced? Be encouraged however, because our God has the amazing ability to restore us from our shame and failures when we turn to Him with our whole heart!

Vandals bring shame to ancient frescoes

One of the historical wonders of my country Sri Lanka is the complex rock fortress, Sigiriya, and the palace built on it by one of our former kings, Kasyapa, in the 5th Century. It is an amazing place to see and tourists flock there to view its beauty, grandeur and craftsmanship. Among the highlights of Sigiriya are the frescoes that are painted on the rock walls. These and the site itself are considered national treasures, with UNESCO listing Sigiriya as a world heritage site.

However, many years ago, some of these frescoes were vandalized by an unknown group of people, with either ink or paint being thrown to deface them. As a result, many experts had to be brought in to restore these frescoes back to their original state. Thankfully, they succeeded in most of their painstaking restoration efforts.

It was a shame when

God speaks restoration to disgrace

Isaiah 54 speaks about God’s restoration to a barren, widowed lady (symbolic of the nation of Israel), who had possibly been rejected by her husband (54:6). In that time and culture, being barren, widowed and rejected, marked her for humiliation and shame, besides making her extremely vulnerable.

God however speaks restoration into her shame and disgrace as Isaiah 54:4 says, “Do not be afraid; you will not suffer shame. Do not fear disgrace; you will not be humiliated. You will forget the shame of your youth and remember no more the reproach of your widowhood”.  Also in Isaiah 54:17, God says, “you will refute every tongue that accuses you…”.

I have always loved music and singing. (This I believe led me into a career in radio broadcasting).  When Jesus gloriously saved me, one of the first things I wanted to do therefore was to join the church choir and sing for His glory. Unfortunately, I didn’t know that I couldn’t sing too well! In fact, I had a difficulty with pitching musical notes correctly.

When I joined the choir, I was singing off pitch and  disorienting  the rest of the group! As a result, after a while, it seemed like I would have to step down from the choir. This would have been a severe setback and caused much shame for me as a young person. But, Isaish 54.4 says, “You will forget the shame of your youth.”

God helps us to forget our shame

Thanks to my choir director, three members of the choir and most of all, God’s help, I managed to overcome this problem. I later became a worship leader in my church and even sang harmony! Later, over a period of many years, I have been involved in many ministry areas, but the one that I served most closely in is… like to take a guess? It’s worship!

God delights to restore us from our shame. Will you allow Him to do so?

“No one whose hope is in You will ever be put to shame…” (Psalm 25:3)

Prayer: Lord, I ask you today to be the Lord over every area of my life and to restore me from all shame and disgrace. I know you can do it as I ask this in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

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The God Who Never Deserts Us – He is Faithful

by Palitha Jayasooriya
written by Palitha Jayasooriya

I wonder how many times you have been let down by someone? There are many who promise us that they will stand by us, no matter what comes our way. They say, “Don’t worry, we’ll be right behind you”. However, when trouble strikes, most of them are so far behind that you need a telescope to see them!

On the other hand, things around us keep changing at a rapid pace, sometimes too fast for us to adjust. In fact, some changes like getting old, developing health issues, children leaving home, having to play the role of a single mom or dad unexpectedly and losing a job, can be quite scary!

It is therefore comforting to know that in the midst of changing circumstances or being let down by someone, that we serve the God who never deserts us! He has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you,” (Hebrews 13:5). He is faithful at all times to His children.

In Deuteronomy 31, the people of God were told of a huge change that was ahead of them. Moses, the man who had led them through ‘thick & thin’ for 40 years, makes a startling statement. In verse 2 he says, “The Lord has said to me, you shall not cross the Jordan.” Just imagine the shock that went through the camp! He also says, “Joshua also will cross ahead of you…” (verse 3). Here was their leader, talking about a change in leadership at the critical period of entering the Promised Land. Moses also clarifies in verse 2, that he was no longer able to lead them, being a 120 years old. It was obviously a scary time for the people of Israel who were used to seeing Moses in front of them. Sure enough, changing circumstances can be very trying!

Moses however then assures them, “the Lord your God goes before you, He will never leave you nor forsake you.” What a promise! He therefore asks the people to be strong and courageous. This gave strength to the people who had seen God go before them as a pillar of cloud and a pillar of fire (Exodus 13:21). It is no coincidence that in Joshua 1:5, God also tells Joshua, the new leader, “I will never leave you nor forsake you”. He assured Joshua that He would be faithful.

What changing circumstances are you facing right now? How are you responding to those changes? Has fear gripped your heart? Do you feel like God is far away? Remember, “He will never leave you nor forsake you”. We have a God who never deserts us, specifically in the most difficult moments. He is faithful through life’s challenges.

Our Faithful God see us at all times

There is a story of a family whose house caught fire. As each parent tried to grab a few belongings and a child’s hand to get out of the house as quickly as possible, the little daughter who was holding the father’s hand, broke free from his grip and ran upstairs to get her teddy bear. However, when trying to come down again, she found that she was trapped by the enveloping flames. She ran to the upstairs window and shouted for her father’s help.

The father shouted back, “jump down, I will catch you”. However, since she couldn’t see her father clearly through the smoke, the little girl cried, “I’m scared to jump daddy, I can’t see you”. Her father replied, “don’t worry honey, you just jump. I’m right under you and I will catch you. Although you can’t see me, I CAN SEE YOU!”

Our Heavenly Father sees us at all times. He is faithful through changing circumstances. He will never desert us!

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