(BLACK PR WIRE) – Scripture references Philippians 3:10 – “I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his suffering, becoming like him in his death, and so, somehow, to attain to the resurrection from the dead.”

Acts 19:21 – “After all this happened, Paul decided to go to Jerusalem, passing through Macedonia and Achaia. After I have been there, he said, I must visit Rome also. He sent two of his helpers, Timothy and Erastus, to Macedonia, while he stayed in the province of Asia a little longer.”

1 Corinthians 10:6 – “Now these things occurred as examples to keep us from setting our hearts on evil things as they did. Do not be idolaters, as some of them were; as it is written: The people sat down to eat and drink and got up to indulge in pagan revelry. We should not commit sexual immorality, as some of them did – and in one day twenty-three thousand of them died. We should not test the Lord, as some of them did – and were killed by the destroying angel. These things happened to them as examples and were written down as warnings for us, on whom the fulfillment of the ages has come. So if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall! No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so you can stand up under it.”

1. Circumstances can become divine agents to God’s ultimate good!
a. Our uncomfortable season is an opportunity for God’s work in our lives.

2. To live above our circumstance, we must focus on Christ.
a. We cannot rise above them until we focus first on Jesus Christ.
b. Praise God in the midst of our problems, even when we don’t understand why – just trust and obey Him.

3. To live above our circumstances, we must grow spiritually!
a. A trouble-free life is not a life living for God. We will encounter trouble and pain but He equips us with the right tools to overcome the world every time.
b. Set your mind on doing what is good and right, even if you do not feel like it.
c. Have the attitude of Christ in your actions, thoughts and deeds.

4. To live above our circumstances, we must be encouraged!
a. Be triumphant through praise and thanksgiving.
b. God is in control of our problems, so we must turn it over to Him and leave them there.
c. Focus on the positive and not the negative which bring about personal pain and anguish.