Despair

April 27th – Zechariah 10:1

Zechariah 10:1

We are living in violent, angry, and turbulent times. Where love, unity, and understanding are in short supply. Yet as the days grow more evil, they won’t always be so. Zechariah 10:1 foretells of the coming of spring rains, a beacon of hope amidst the darkness of injustice that plagues our world. Right now, everywhere we look we see the flames of injustice burning bright, casting shadows of despair upon our hearts. We cry out, “Maranatha! Come, Lord Jesus!” And come He will. One day very soon, Christ will come for His bride. And on that day, God’s justice will descend upon the earth, washing away the stains of injustice and bringing forth renewal and restoration. As we eagerly anticipate the arrival of spring, let us also eagerly await the day when God’s justice will rain down. Bringing healing to the broken, freedom to the oppressed, and righteousness to the land. May our hearts be filled with hope and courage, knowing that God is faithful to His promises and that His justice will prevail in the end.

April 27th – Zechariah 10:1 Read More »

February 26th – Romans 15:13

Romans 15:13

Charles Spurgeon once said, “When the heart is full of joy, it always allows its joy to escape. It is like the fountain in the marketplace; whenever it is full it runs away in streams, and so soon as it ceases to overflow, you may be quite sure that it has ceased to be full. The only full heart is the overflowing heart.” God’s love is an ever-flowing fountain, filling the depths of our hearts with joy. It’s a love that surpasses understanding, bringing a peace that transcends the trials of life. As we anchor our trust in Him, the source of unending hope, our hearts become reservoirs of happiness. In moments of despair, God’s love becomes a guiding light, illuminating the path to a future overflowing with hope. With unwavering confidence, we stand in awe of His love that transforms adversity into an opportunity for growth and resilience. And in the embrace of God’s love, we discover an overflowing fountain of hope and joy that defies circumstance, a testament to the enduring power of His grace in our lives.

 

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February 18th – Psalm 147:3

Psalm 147:3

When we suffer a physical wound, we seek a doctor. What about for our spiritual wounds? When our souls are shattered and in need of mending, Christians have the greatest Physician of all in God. As our gentle Healer, the Lord wraps us in His grace. With His tender care, God mends the fractures of our spirits. And in the depths of our despair, His love is the balm that soothes the ache of brokenness. His mercy is the spiritual bandage which heals our innermost being. As the broken pieces of our existence are gathered by the hand of the Almighty, we are reminded of His unfailing promise to mend what is torn. To restore us from even the deepest of hurts, and lift us from the depths of despair. In the sanctuary of His love, there is healing, there is renewal, and there is hope eternal. For we, who are broken, are made whole by the power of His infinite grace. And in the mercy of God’s redemption, our hearts are knit together again, strengthened by His unwavering love that knows no bounds.

February 18th – Psalm 147:3 Read More »

December 29th – 2 Corinthians 4:8-9

2 Corinthians 4:8-9

As we get ready to usher in a new year, we know the months ahead will be filled with their own set of challenges. Yet we can approach each one not with fear or despair, but with an unwavering trust in God’s sustaining power. And with a full confidence that although the waves may crash and the boat rock, we will not be swept away. For if we have a foundation built on faith in God, no storm of life can overcome us. No matter what the Enemy throws at us, or how hard he tries to destroy us, no plan of his will succeed. As a beacon in the night, Our Heavenly Father will be there guiding and protecting us through it all, His strength made perfect in our weakness. So bring on the new year! And as we encounter the uncertainties that it will may bring, let us face them with unwavering trust in God’s unfailing grace. For where there is trust, there is the promise of endless possibilities and unwavering hope.

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November 29th – James 5:11

James 5:11

If there’s anyone who knows adversity, it’s Job. He lost everything. His family, his wealth, and his health. A once prominent man, he became a laughing stock to those around him. Yet through it all, Job maintained an unwavering trust in God. And against those who told himself otherwise, he refused to curse the Lord. Even in the depths of his despair. His resilience is a testament to a steadfast spirit anchored in the belief that God’s purpose and mercy always prevail. Job’s enduring faith, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges, serves as an enduring example of unwavering hope amid trials. It speaks to the transformative power of difficulties. Because during trials there lies an opportunity to witness the compassionate and merciful nature of the Lord. That’s why James encourages us to anchor our hope in the understanding that endurance, guided by faith, reveals the profound purposes of a compassionate and merciful God.

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November 1st – Psalm 42:11

Psalm 42:11

The world seems upside down. Everyday it falls darker in a downward spiral of wickedness and chaos. But those who anchor their hope in God, have everything they need to face despair and difficult seasons. Because that hope in God is a source of enduring strength and a catalyst for praise, even in the most trying of circumstances. And it’s through hope and praise, that we can navigate challenging times with renewed strength and a sense of purpose. No matter what is happening the world God is in control, orchestrating a divine plan for good. It’s this hope, rooted in faith, that enables us to face adversity with resilience and to be beacons of light. Ambassadors of Jesus, offering compassion, love, and a sense of purpose amidst the turmoil of the world. And to be like David. Who no matter the challenge he faced, understand that the challenges, chaos, and uncertainties of life are temporary and that a greater, eternal hope lies ahead.

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September 30th – Psalm 145:4

Psalm 145:4

One generation commends your works to another; they tell of your mighty acts.”

One of the problems this younger generation faces, is that most of them have never been taught about God. Who He is, His love for them, and the life saving grace He offers. By sharing our experiences of God’s goodness, love, and mighty works, we not only provide a foundation of faith but also inspire young people to seek a relationship with Him. A relationship that equips them with the spiritual wisdom and understanding necessary to navigate life’s challenges. When we bear witness to God’s work in our own lives and share His word with others, we become instruments of His love and redemption. This act of sharing not only strengthens our own faith but also has the potential to lead the lost to a saving relationship with God. In a world often marked by uncertainty and despair, the message of God’s steadfast love and salvation offers hope, comfort, and purpose. Thats why it’s our responsibility and privilege to proclaim His name, sharing the good news of His grace with a generation in need of His light.

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July 24th – Proverbs 24:11

Proverbs 24:11

Rescue those who are being taken away to death; hold back those who are stumbling to the slaughter.

The Bible is very clear in warning us that our noses are better off kept in our own business. Yet there are times when we are called as Christians to speak up and speak out. Times when we see an atrocity, injustice, or abuse. It is then, we are told, to take action, especially in protecting the innocent. Which is why God also commissions us to go out and share the Gospel. For just as important as pulling someone from the path of a speeding car, so is sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ. Because it is a life saver to those walking the path of certain death and destruction. A transforming message, it brings hope to the hopeless, and delivers those trapped in darkness and despair. And although we aren’t responsible for another’s salvation, we are responsible to plant the seed of God’s saving grace. For we are His ambassadors on this earth. And as such should be dedicated to rescuing souls and leading them toward the light of salvation.

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March 23rd – Psalm 121:2

Psalm 121:2

Of the seven annual Jewish Feasts, three required the people to make a trek to the temple. Jerusalem sat upon a high hill. And as they climbed the steep road to the city, Jewish pilgrims sang songs of praise and worship to God. Psalm 121 is such a song. One the people sang with joy as they remembered how they cried out in despair, and how every time their help came from the Lord. For our God is always awake and watching over His people with infinite care. Although we aren’t required to travel to Jerusalem, we too are on a trek. Until we are called home to heaven, we are to walk the path chosen for us by God. And whatever path that is, we have the blessing of knowing as His beloved children, our Father will never let our feet be moved. He is the mighty Keeper of our souls. Protector and Sustainer of His people. And as such, night and day, coming and going, God will keep us secure and steadfast. Always helping, guiding, and providing.

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March 8th – Psalm 27:14

Psalm 27:14

We’ve all heard it said that patience is a virtue. It’s also listed by Paul in Galatians 5:22-23 as among the fruit of the Spirit. But when it comes to times of hurting and despair, the last thing we want to do is practice patience. Instead what we want is immediate relief. That’s where faith comes in. God knows what we’re going through. And we need to trust Him enough to have patience to allow Him to work in our lives. To have faith in His perfect plan and timing. I love how John Piper says. “The folly of not waiting for God is that we forfeit the blessing of having God work for us. The evil of not waiting on God is that we oppose God’s will to exalt Himself in mercy.” Waiting on the Lord is an act of faith that requires patience and trust.  And it’s one that allows us to follow God’s plan for our lives, avoid mistakes, and experience spiritual growth and renewal.

 

March 8th – Psalm 27:14 Read More »