Sister Tarpley: Your Treasures in God’s Darkness

Editor’s Note: This column originally was published April 4, 2013.

By Sister Tarpley, NDG Religion Editor

“And I will give thee the treasures of darkness And hidden riches of secret places, that thou mayest that I, the Lord, which call thee by thy name, am the God of Israel.” Isaiah 45:3.

If you are going through a trial that seems to be lasting, to you at least, a long time, now is the time to tie a knot to the end of your rope and continue to trust God.

You may find yourself out of your comfort zone because you are in a difficult place in your life. However, study the scriptures and allow God to lead you to certain passages that will help to increase your faith and help you to hang on until your situation changes for the better.

What you may perceive as dark periods in your life are designed to be treasures from God. They are riches stored in secret places. You, perhaps, cannot see the treasures in your darkness because of the pain and fear that you are feeling. But, God has a purpose for your trials. During these trying times, you are completely at God’s mercy for breakthroughs in your life. You will never know how personal God is, or that He can be trusted to meet the deepest needs in your life. You will never experience God’s faithfulness without your trials. God wants you to know that you are “called by your name;” that every hair on your head is numbered. God is aware of every activity that you are involved in. His love for you knows no bounds and He will use every opportunity to show this to you.

An old adage says, “God’s answer to your prayer is seldom early, but it is never late!” If you trust Him, God will give you the grace you need and at the right time. If you keep a right attitude and not allow bitterness or resentment to take hold, then at the right time, in due season (if you faint not); God will answer your prayers. Habakkuk 2 tells us that God has an appointed time to answer your prayers so that you receive just what you need at just the right time to live victoriously and happily. Believe that God is at work in your life bringing about what He knows is best for you. Ask God for patience as you faithfully wait for your situation to improve. “For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry.” Habakkuk 2:3.

Remember, Satan will attack your mind and will tell you that no one cares about you or your problem and he will try to convince you that you are alone with this problem. Instead of giving in to those evil thoughts don’t forget to open your Bible and turn to scriptures in the Word of God that guarantees you that your needs will be met. Tell God that with the help of the Holy Spirit, you won’t take back your problem. This is not an easy thing to do; but every time the problem comes to your mind, quote scripture and praise God. A pastor once told his congregation, you can’t stop temptations and evil thoughts from coming to your mind, but you don’t have to let them build a nest there.

Learn to find your treasures in God’s darkness for you. The next time you’re facing a problem, give it to God. He has volunteered for the job and you can trust Him to do it well. After all, He really does care for you.

To God you’re unique and one of a kind. Your life can be what you want it to be. Take the days just one at a time. Learn to count your blessings, not your troubles. With God, you’ll make it through whatever comes along. Understand that your treasures are “stored in secret places,” have the courage and be strong.

It is Springtime, time for a new beginning, we have plenty to be thankful for. Learn the true meaning of Easter, and this weekend, have a happy and blessed Easter!