Cortland Trinity Baptist Church

    Psalm 46 portrays God as our help in time of trouble.  While I was reading it today I came to verse 7 which says, “The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge,” and I noticed my handwritten note next to the verse that said, “Lord, confirm this,” and it was dated 11-25-05.
    I immediately remembered the circumstances in my life when I scribbled that brief prayer request in my Bible.  I was in turmoil and trouble.  I was gripped by anxiety and felt helpless.  I saw things unraveling right in front of my eyes and I couldn’t do a thing about it.  No matter what I confessed or submitted to, no matter how sincerely I tried to repair relationships it was never enough.  So when I read, “The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge,” I needed His confirmation.  I needed Him to show me that He was with me.  
    Less than two weeks later God spoke to me and said, “This year has been your worst year; next year will be your best year.”  He then took me into the darkest period of my life.  Yet is was this dark period that brought me to brokenness and out of my brokenness the Lord birthed within me a deep burden for revival, a strong desire to know Him and to see His glory.  This eventually led to what we now call the Trumbull County Prayer Movement.
    It wasn’t till today as I read Psalm 46 and saw my hand scribbled prayer that I realized how quickly, graciously and powerfully God moved to answer my prayer.  He did it in a way I would have never expected.  Looking back I realize I have been the beneficiary of His severe mercy.  I am able to see the light He brought out of my darkness and the good He brought out of my bad experiences.
    I still wait for the fulfillment of all the desires He has put within my heart.  But I am greatly encouraged every time the Holy Spirit allows me to rehearse the faithfulness of God in my life.  Truly He is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble!

  Pastor Dan