Jer 29:11 “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
My sister claimed this verse as her own many years ago. She was struggling with health issues that eventually led to a liver transplant. For many months, we weren’t sure if she was going to make it, yet she was confident in God’s promise, and while she was hopeful she would be healed on this side of the veil, she knew God would heal her one way or the other. Her faith has long been an inspiration for me.
Psalm 39:7 And so, Lord, where do I put my hope? My only hope is in You.
The season of Lent, reading and studying about what Jesus suffered, especially on His last day, is difficult for me. To think of what He endured and of the hopelessness His followers and loved ones must have felt, especially on that Saturday, hurts my heart in a way that is hard for me to describe. But without the pain, fear, loneliness, and uncertainty of Good Friday and Saturday, there could be no empty tomb and risen Savior on Easter morning. Thank You, Jesus.
Isaiah 42:16 I will lead the blind by ways they have not known, along unfamiliar paths I will guide them; I will turn darkness into light before them and make the rough places smooth. These are the things I will do; I will not forsake them.
Lord, Thank You for this day and for Your saving grace and mercy. Thank You for being with us, always, especially through the darkness and fear. We don’t always understand Your ways, Lord, and sometimes life can be so hard. Help us never to lose sight of the fact that You love us, deeply, that You are with us, always. Help us never to forget that You conquered the grave and that even if we cannot understand the things of this life, we can trust Your great love and compassion for us. Help us to cling to You. Always. Draw us closer. Amen.
Deut 31:6 Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified…for the LORD your God goes with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you.
Have a blessed day.
My faith, my life, my teaching–it's all a work in progress.