Finding Strength in the Darkest Moments
When our dreams are shattered, it’s natural to feel lost and alone. But what if we’re not supposed to rush through the pain? What if, instead, we’re meant to sit quietly in God’s presence, trusting that He has a plan for our future?
The Illusion of Comfort
I recently wrote about the importance of embracing the stillness, and the responses I received were surprising. Many echoed the familiar refrain, “Don’t worry, be happy.” But is this optimism a genuine expression of faith, or a thinly veiled attempt to avoid the harsh realities of life? Are we simply stuffing down our emotions, refusing to confront the pain head-on?
The Wilderness of Suffering
As I reflected on these responses, my mind turned to the stories of John the Baptist and Jesus. After Jesus’ baptism, He was immediately sent into the wilderness to face temptation and suffering. Meanwhile, John, the herald of the coming Kingdom, was thrown into prison. Both men knew the words of Isaiah: “I am the Lord your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, ‘Do not fear; I will help you.’” (Isaiah 41:13)
The Power of Faith
In these dark moments, did they recall God’s promise? Did they find strength in the knowledge that God was with them, even in the midst of suffering? God didn’t rescue Jesus from the Evil One’s temptations; He gave Him the power to resist. And He didn’t free John from Herod’s prison; instead, John’s faithfulness ultimately led to his martyrdom.
A Peace That Transcends
It’s in these real places of real suffering that we hear God’s whispered promise: “Do not fear; I will help you.” As the Apostle Paul wrote, “In every circumstance and in everything, make your wants known to God. Then…God’s peace shall be yours, that tranquil state of a soul assured of its salvation through Christ, and so fearing nothing from God and being content with its earthly lot of whatever sort that is…” (Philippians 4:6-7, Amplified Bible)
Embracing the Unknown
In the end, it’s not about avoiding pain or difficulties; it’s about finding strength in the midst of them. It’s about trusting that God is with us, even when we can’t see a way out. So let us not be afraid to face our fears, to sit quietly in the presence of God, and to trust that He will help us, no matter what lies ahead.
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