Listen:
“I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)
Reflect:
The Lord is close to the broken-hearted. (Psalms 34:18)
In college, I found the guy I was going to marry. A man of faith, the perfect smile, and a steady presence. We got married and spent the next two years building our life together. Then, he was diagnosed with a terminal illness. My worst fear became my reality.
The next three years following his diagnosis were incredibly hard. Our world shaken. Our future unclear. The hardest days still to come. I never imagined my dream of being a wife and mom would soon be followed by widowhood.
Trials and sorrows surrounded me from all sides, but in the midst of it, a peace only He can give, comforted me in my great need. God’s voice was my anchor. “Take heart, Trina. I’ve overcome the world.” God’s peace can sustain us because no matter the trial we walk on this earth, our hope is found in eternity with Him.
“The Lord is close to the broken-hearted.” (Psalms 34:18)
In the midst of a broken heart and shattered dreams, the Lord stayed close. In my need, He provided. In the darkness, He gave me my next step. In my suffering, His presence was near.
Deep loss and suffering will always be a part of my story; and so will His faithfulness. God continues to lead, restore, provide and bless. While I’ve experienced great loss, I’ve also experienced beauty and blessing. Both are true. God increased my capacity for love and led me to marry an incredible man who fully embraced my journey. God continued to bless with the gift of two beautiful children.
Trials will still come, but take heart, God has overcome the world.
Prayer of Response:
Even in the midst of trials and deep sorrow, Lord, Your promise remains — You have overcome the world. We ask You to supply us with Your peace. Give us the courage we need to continue our journey on this side of heaven. Lord, draw near to the broken-hearted and flood them with Your presence. We need You, Lord. We thank You for Your faithfulness to us. Amen
Questions to Ponder:
What trial are you currently facing? How do you embrace difficulty? How have you experienced God’s promise of peace in the midst of suffering? How have you felt the Lord’s presence in seasons of brokenness?
—Submitted by Trina Visscher
Trina and her husband Forrest live in Oregon with their children Beau and Lyla. She is a stay-at-home mom with her two adorable and busy toddlers. Trina enjoys iced coffee, the sunshine, and intentional conversation.
Leave a Reply