For the child of God during a trial.
The pains and troubles of this world can be overwhelming. They can rob our joy.
But only through deception.
The truth is that even in our worst pain, we can have joy.
Even on our worst days, we have a purpose.
We always have a secure and sure identity to sustain us.
Jesus lost his father as a young man. He knows grief.
Jesus was homeless and penniless, dependent on others for years. He knows hardship.
Jesus spoke with love and passion, but most rejected him.
One of his closest friends betrayed him. He knows rejection.
Though he always loved, he was hated. That hatred eventually killed him.
Yet none of that stole his joy.
None of that changed his identity.
None of that stopped his purpose.
Secure in God the Father’s love, he overcame it all.
Setting aside his divinity, the man Jesus demonstrated that embracing and committing to God’s love is our way to joy.
Jesus showed that walking the road that leads to eternity is our way to peace and rest.
Set the trial aside and cling to Jesus.
Force your mind to seek him first.
In the midst of the pain, know He hurts with you.
Despite your uncertainty, He knows the way.
Dear child of God, this world is not your home.
It is the only the turbulent flight toward home.
Despite the lack of comfort, despite the danger, this trip is worth enduring for your destination is paradise!
I’m praying your heart receives this truth in a way that helps. And I’ll continue praying as long as we share this journey.