Through the Storm

             In this life, we experience many trials and hardships.  We feel the pain of rejection, fear of the unknown, and grief after a loss.  Yet, through the midst of each of these circumstances, we are promised comfort and peace through Christ Jesus.  The Bible tells us that, “by His wounds we are healed” (Isaiah 53:5).  Even in the midst of our grief, He is with us.  When one’s heart feels broken, He is there.  We can take comfort in the fact that any trial we go through, Jesus experienced it first.  He felt rejection, pain, hatred, suffering, betrayal, isolation, desertion, and ultimately death on a cross.  He experienced all of these atrocities and more!  Why?  All because of His unfailing love for us!  No matter what we are going through, no matter how big the problem or pain may be, we can take comfort knowing that our God is bigger still, and He has “overcome the world!” (John 16:33).  When low in spirit, He is there to bind up the wound with His love and peace.  He is with us!  His word tells us that “The Lord is close to the broken hearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit” (Psalm 34:18).

            Regardless of the fact that life doesn’t always make sense and even though we may have to experience trials that we don’t understand, wait for things we think we’re ready to have, and feel pain that hurts more that words can describe, we need to remember that Jesus has it.  We need to stop worrying about things that can’t be changed, and instead of focusing on our human ability, utilize our strength through prayer.  We need to take our hurts, trials, and desires to the cross.  We need to go before our Savior and ask Him to be in the center of every moment and every circumstance.  If we would seek His peace, we could take comfort in knowing that He is for us and will always love His children.

Dear God,

I know we have messed up.  We have felt the pain from the world.  We have been selfish enough to want to only focus on us and not realize that there are others in pain.  Help us to bring our pain to you and allow your love to heal us.  Please heal our hearts and wounded pride.  Help us to always run to you first!

                                                Amen