HAPPY NEW YEAR! I say that not as a normal greeting people use to ring in a new year nor as a placebo to people going through some very difficult times, which most likely would continue into the new year. I say that as someone who believes that the God we worship and serve is sovereign, is still seated on His throne and is still in control.

 

The Christian life isn’t always sunshine and daisies. In fact, more often than not, it’s trials, pain, and hardships, which make Bible verses about faith so much more important to cling to. One that that I turn to every time is found in Isaiah 41:10, “Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.” There are mountains and valleys, and sometimes life is just way too much to bear.

 

Maybe today you’re feeling buried by the trials and brokenness of your circumstance. Maybe you’re feeling defeated, like God has forgotten about you. Hear me when I say, He has not.

 

I don’t know why God allows good people to suffer, but I do know two things: 1. God’s heart is breaking right along with yours. He hurts WITH you, and he knows your pain. 2. No matter what pain comes against you in this world, God has already redeemed it through His Son Jesus Christ, whose birth we just celebrated.

 

There IS beauty in trials, pain and suffering, even when these make you feel like your world is crashing down around you like this pandemic the world is going through. Even when there’s no beauty to behold in the great darkness that surrounds you.

 

Turn to the God of all comfort. Turn to the One who provides peace that passes all understanding. Turn to the Light of the World.

 

I believe that Foursquare will emerge from this present darkness stronger than ever.

 

Again, HAPPY NEW YEAR!

 

Dear God, thank you that you are my strength and companion as I tread through waters deep and unknown. Because of your Word to us, we have all the confidence to face 2021. In Jesus’ name, amen.