Hold On

…For I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.  I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.  I can do all things through Him who gives me strength.

Philippians 4:11-13 (NIV)

To say that I have attained the ability to always be content in every situation would be a lie. I still have moments when I forget in whom my joy can be found. I forget what Jesus has brought me through and from. And I find myself whining and complaining in my prayers.

Instead of thanking Him for every good thing and believing that everything really does work to the good for those who love Him, I focus on the moment. This moment. And can’t see past it. I forget that with His strength, wisdom and mercy I can withstand any storm. It may take time and it may hurt but with God on my (and your) side, we (you) are the majority and will be victorious. J

I’m not in the midst of a trial right now but I know people who are.

I have friends and family members who are facing possibly the worst storm of their lives. Their worlds have been turned upside down and their futures seem uncertain.

In four days it will be exactly one year since what I like to call “the great calamity”. The great calamity was a six month period of extreme mourning, confusion, exhaustion and eventual redemption. My marriage nearly came to an end but by the grace of God, it didn’t. Because both of us sought the Lord, both of us wanted to honor the commitment we made before Him, we made it. I know that not every marriage makes it but when Jesus is in it, you’ve got a great advantage and a fighting chance.

If I could say one thing to those hurting right now, I would say hold on.

Hold on to your faith.

Hold on to your family.

And most importantly, hold on to Jesus. He WILL bring you through. He CAN redeem.

This moment WILL pass. Just hold on.