Psalm 40: Test and Trial

Friends,

I had the opportunity to share my story of affliction through addiction with the Olney Baptist Church in Philadelphia on Sunday, July 11th, 2021. I would like to take this opportunity to give you a brief summary of the video you are about to view, which ends in the hope of the gospel, a new life in Christ.

The suffering continues, but faith is stronger!

The video is a summary of my life in addiction, which was allowed by God to save my life. I call this testimony “Psalm 40: Test and Trial.” Just as David describes in Psalm 40, this is a celebration of deliverance! 

The sufferings are real with intense pain; however, God uses this for good and for His glory. There is hope in your trials. This hope is found in Christ. 

“And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.” -Romans 8:28

Towards the end of the video, I shared that as I surrendered to God in prayer, he delivered me born again. I knew my journey was beginning as he established my steps, I knew it was over. I felt it inwardly. He brought me out of that land of miry clay and placed my feet upon Christ the Rock! 

I had a new song and purpose in my heart. Friends, I was born again to new life through God allowing the affliction of my addiction!

“These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” -John 16:33

This testimony shows that God has a purpose for all of us. You are not alone! God has a purpose for you! In my case, I did not understand this until the circumstances that God allowed. God strong-armed me to wait with patience. 

"Be still and know that I am God" -Psalm 46:10

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, He is a new creation, old things have passed, behold all things have become new.” -2 Corinthians 5:17

God Bless,

John Carlson