Romans 14:12-13

So then, each of us will give an account of himself to God. Then let us not criticize one another anymore, but rather determine this-not to put an obstacle or a stumbling block or a source of temptation in another believer’s way. 

The only thing that we can control is ourselves and how we act and react. We may get frustrated with others and be tempted to criticize their choices, but our criticism does not change their circumstances. Praying for guidance for that person would. Redirect the frustration to a more powerful force and ask for help from God.

Romans 2:23-24

You who boast in the Law, do you (repeatedly) dishonor God by breaking the Law? For “The Name of God is Blasphemed Amon the Gentiles because of You,” just as it is written (in Scripture). (Is 52:5)

Sin has corrupted people inside and outside the church. Our job is not to be a Christian in name only but to show the true Jesus in word and deed. Yes, we may mess up but repent and don’t stop trying. People need to see true Christians who keep God’s law and who they can trust. That is the Christian who will reach the lost.  

Romans 1:18-19

For (God does not overlook sin and) the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men who in their wickedness suppress and stifle the truth, because that which is known about God is evident within them, for God made it evident to them.  

Evil and sin are not ignored or prevail against God. God is still in charge even though sin is becoming more prevalent before the return of Jesus. Our hope remains and will be fulfilled by God, and our confidence securely remains in His promises. Don’t be discouraged or give up hope!

1 Peter 1:13

So prepare your minds for action, be completely sober (in spirit steadfast, self-disciplined, spiritually and morally alert), fix your hope completely on the grace (of God) that is coming to you when Jesus Christ is revealed.  

The strength of our faith depends on our diligence in preparation and study. We will have trouble if we don’t prepare ourselves in the spirit and be self-disciplined according to God’s word. Our hope in Jesus and His coming again should motivate us to remain steadfast in the faith. 

James 3:14-16

But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not be arrogant and be in defiance of the truth. This (superficial) wisdom is not that which comes down from above, but is earthly (secular), natural, even demonic. For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there is disorder (unrest, rebellion) and every evil thing and morally degrading practice.

A worldly self-ambitious person will deny the truth of God and His guidance. The motive of the heart will be revealed in a person’s actions, whether good or evil. This worldly self-ambitious behavior is increasing in the world, and sin is increasing. Our goal is to keep ourselves clean of the world and to keep our focus on the Bible, Church, and Jesus.

James 1:12

Blessed (happy, spiritually prosperous, favored by God) is the man who is steadfast under trial and preserves when tempted, for when he has passed the test and been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him. 

We should be calm when trials come to us but have a plan for how we will react. When we police our thoughts and cast down anything that doesn’t align with God’s word, our trials will be shortened. If we choose not to let the flesh get the better of us, we will succeed in avoiding temptation. As believers, problems will come to us, but our attitude will make all the difference.  

James 1:3-4

Be assured that the testing of your faith (through experience) produces endurance (leading to spiritual maturity, and inner peace). And let endurance have its perfect result and do a thorough work, so that you may be a perfect and completely developed (in your faith), lacking in nothing.

As people of faith, we need to practice endurance when life gets uncomfortable. When we believe in God’s ability to act on our behalf, we will remain in peace as we wait. Waiting isn’t always comfortable; we must stay firm in God’s word and promises. Our comfort and peace are established in our hearts through faith in God.

Psalm 72:12-14

For he will rescue the needy when he cries for help, the afflicted and abused also, and him who has no helper. He will have compassion on the poor and needy, and he will save the lives of the needy. He will redeem their life from oppression and fraud and violence, and their blood will be precious in His sight. 

Our God has compassion for His people in need and hears their cries. The message of salvation is a hand-up that brings the poor out of the poverty mindset. God gives hope where a vision of hope can’t be seen. The transformation of God working in the spirit removes the oppression of evil, redeeming the afflicted

Psalm 53:8-9

But as for me, I am like a green olive tree in the house of God; I trust in the lovingkindness of God forever and ever. I will thank You forever, because You have done it, (You have rescued me and kept me safe). I will wait on Your name, for it is good, in the presence of Your Godly ones.

God reminds us many times in the bible of how our relationship works. We have faith in Him, and He protects and prospers us. It is essential in these times and the times to come to build up our foundation and stand firm in that knowledge. Then we will not be shaken, and we will not be moved.  

Psalm 34:21-22

Evil will cause the death of the wicked, and those who hate the righteous will be held guilty and will be condemned. The Lord redeems the soul of His servants, and none of those who take refuge in Him will be condemned.

God is our safety net, a hedge of protection, and, for the lost, a guide and refuge. We cannot fear evil or the wicked because they are condemned for their works. Our goal is to remain faithful servants through the ups and downs and let God take care of the evil that tries to come against us.