Pain

June 26th – Psalm 40:1

Psalm 40:1

In times of pain and distress, we naturally yearn for immediate relief. We cry out to God for swift intervention and comfort. Our pleas are filled with urgency, desperate for Him to act and alleviate our suffering. Yet there are moments when His response seems delayed, and we find ourselves in a season of waiting. This waiting can feel excruciating, leading us to question whether God hears us at all. However Psalm 40:1 reassures us that God does hear our cries and His ears are always turned towards us, even when His answer isn’t immediate. The delay isn’t a sign of His absence or indifference, but a part of His perfect timing and deeper work in our lives. It teaches us patience, trust, and reliance on His greater plan. And in the waiting, God is shaping us, preparing us, and providing the strength and resilience we need. So while we may not receive instant relief, we can be confident that God listens, cares, and will ultimately act for our good. Turning our waiting into a testimony of His faithfulness.

June 26th – Psalm 40:1 Read More »

May 31st – Luke 18:8

Luke 18:8

Here in Luke Jesus poses a poignant question, wondering if He will find faith on the earth when He returns. This question underscores the lifelong journey of faith each believer undertakes. A path inevitably touched by pain and suffering. Suffering is a universal experience, and while it can lead some to lose faith, it holds a deeper purpose in our spiritual growth. No one wants to hurt, but pain can refine and strengthen us. It can build resilience and deepen our dependence on God. Through trials, our faith is tested and purified, much like gold in a furnace. As we endure and overcome, our trust in God’s promises deepens, and our spiritual maturity flourishes. Each hardship is an opportunity to draw closer to God, to lean on His strength when ours falters. And it’s through these very challenges that our faith is proven genuine and true. So that when Jesus returns, He will find us steadfast. Our faith unshaken by the trials we’ve faced, stronger and more radiant for  having walked through the fire with Him.

May 31st – Luke 18:8 Read More »

March 29th – Mark 9:31

Mark 9:31

Good Friday is a day of profound bittersweetness. On one hand it marks the crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ, a moment of immense sorrow and pain as the Son of God suffers the ultimate sacrifice for our sins. The brutality and injustice of the crucifixion evoke deep emotions of grief and anguish, as we contemplate the magnitude of Jesus’ suffering and the weight of our own sins. Yet, amid the darkness and despair of Good Friday, there is also a glimmer of hope. Because it’s through Jesus’ sacrificial death that redemption and salvation are made possible. The bitter agony of the cross is intertwined with the sweet promise of God’s unfailing love and grace. The sacred day reminds us that even in the midst of suffering, Jesus’ death on the cross is not the end of the story. It’s a prelude to the joyous resurrection of Easter Sunday, when death is conquered and new life begins. Good Friday is a day where sorrow and joy, death and life, are intimately intertwined, reminding us of the profound depths of God’s love and the beautiful promise of eternal redemption.

March 29th – Mark 9:31 Read More »

December 13th – 2 Corinthians 1:3-4

2 Corinthians 1:3-4

Some people can’t wait for the holiday’s. With its glitter, lights, and festivities, they overflow with anticipation for the joy the season brings. But for others, the season can’t get over fast enough. Because it’s marked by silent struggles and unspoken pain. Recognizing those who bear the weight of sorrow during the holiday season becomes an opportunity. To show the same compassion and empathy that Jesus exemplified. For He is the ultimate source of comfort and peace. And by extending a hand to those hurting, we become beautiful channels of the peace that transcends understanding. Christmas, at its core, invites us to be bearers of Christ’s love. To offer a sanctuary for the brokenhearted and a soothing balm for wounds unseen. In this sacred season, let us be attuned to the silent cries. May we embrace the hurting with the enduring message that through Jesus, there is healing, peace, and a boundless source of comfort for every ache of the soul.

December 13th – 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 Read More »

November 8th – Psalm34:17-18

Psalm 34:17-18

God wants us to come to Him with everything both good and bad. But sometimes the pain is so overwhelming, we can’t put it into words. And when it comes to crying out for help, the best we can manage is a deep groan. Yet often, these groans are some of our most powerful prayers. Because they come from the heart. And are raw expressions of our deep anguish, and struggles. They communicate the depths of our soul to God, who understands our unspoken cries. His nearness to the broken-hearted is a source of peace and strength, offering a life line of endurance when we need it most. It reminds us that in our vulnerability and pain, we are not alone. His love and compassion envelop us, providing a sanctuary for our wounded souls. Even in the darkest of times, God remains a constant and unwavering source of comfort and healing, ready to mend the broken pieces of our hearts. And instilling us with unwavering hope, as we are confident the Lord will deliver us from our troubles.

November 8th – Psalm34:17-18 Read More »

October 12th – 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

My heart is broken with the tragedy of the war in Israel. The reports of the brutality against God’s people are horrific. Yet even when our circumstances are dire, tragic, and devastating, Paul tells us to embrace a spirit of joy, gratitude, and prayer. Finding such joy and gratitude can be challenging. But God is always with us in our pain. And His love can guide us towards a place of renewed hope and appreciation, even in the midst of heartbreak. For His abundance is always present through His grace, mercy, and the hope we have in Christ. So no matter what we face, we can always rejoice in joy over our relationship with God, and give thanks in all circumstances. For His love and provision are steadfast. And no matter the what the Enemy tries, God is always in control. And the best defense is to rejoice pray without ceasing. Because it connects us to the abundant source of God’s wisdom, strength, and guidance. Allowing us to draw strength and hope from His unwavering presence.

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July 12th – Proverbs 14:10

Proverbs 14:10

Each heart knows its own bitterness, and no one else can share its joy.”

There’s nothing worse than when we share experiences with others just to hear how they too have experienced the same thing. As Christians, we need to realize that everyone’s journey is unique to them. And we need to listen to their story allow without immediately interjecting our own experience and opinion. For everyone’s feelings about a situation are their own. And instead of looking for a know it all, people are looking for someone to come alongside them to provide comfort, understanding and love. So even if we’ve had a similar experience, in humility and love we need to listen with open ears and a closed mouth. Everyone carries hidden burdens and joys that we will never know. As Christians it’s not our not to judge or assume we understand the depth of someone else’s pain or joy. Instead we are to rejoice with those who rejoice and weep with those who weep. (Romans 12:15) And unless asked, leave our opinions at the door.

 

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May 12th – Isaiah 65:17

Isaiah 65:17

When my Grandma was diagnosed with dementia, it was painful to watch as she tried to hold on to precious memories. Memories can be both a blessing and a curse. Some fill our hearts with joy while others bring tears to our eyes. One day God promises to create a new heaven and a new earth. And in this new reality, the painful experiences and memories of the past will no longer have any power over us. The memories that we cherish will still remain. But all things, including memories, that brought us pain and suffering will be no more. Instead we will dwell with the Lord forever in an eternity filled with joy, peace, and harmony. And our old way of thinking and behaving will be left behind. Because of His great love and mercy, God offers us a clean slate and a fresh start. One where past mistakes and wrongdoings can be forgotten and forgiven, allowing for a new future. A future that is free from the pains and sorrows of the past and filled with the blessings of His grace and love.

May 12th – Isaiah 65:17 Read More »

January 30th – Psalm 81:13

Psalm 81:13

We all know the truth that hindsight is 20/20. Because there isn’t a single person who hasn’t looked back at past mistakes and uttered the words, “If only”. Regret is a powerful emotion. One that keeps us in bondage and stuck in the past. That’s why our Heavenly Father cries out, “Oh that My people would listen to Me!” (vs. 13) As Christian’s our greatest goal is to walk hand in hand with God. To have a close, personal, relationship with the One who knows us best. But to walk with God, we have to listen to God. Many are the ways in which God speaks. One of the greatest ways God speaks is through His Word. Other times God speaks to us through teachers or fellow believers. We even hear from God through worship. Many are the ways in which God speaks. Which is why it’s so important to listen for and obey His voice. Israel learned the hard way the pain of regret. And from her mistakes, can we save ourselves the same pain.

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January 7th – Psalm 41:12

Psalm 41:12

There is a quote that warns, “not everyone you fight is your enemy. And not everyone who helps you is your friend.” Throughout our lives we will experience hurt, betrayal, and disappointment at the hands of others. And in those moments we have a choice to make. Will that pain make us better or bitter? Better is using the hurt to grow closer to the Lord, and softening our hearts to the pain and needs of others. But bitter takes glee in retribution and seeing others misfortune. And it turns a blind eye to the suffering of another because its focus is only on self pity. We all fall short and sin daily against God. Yet from His wonderful love, He extends to us His unmerited grace and mercy. And He calls us to show that same grace and mercy. To repay evil with kindness, curses with blessings, and mistreatment with prayer. (Luke 6:27-28) And most importantly of all, if we see a need to meet that need. The way God meets all of ours.

January 7th – Psalm 41:12 Read More »