Hope

I don't have much to say today. My soul is filled with joy and grief at the same time. But I am greatly encouraged by the hope that I have in my God. A few days ago I felt so completely broken and sad. I was and am overwhelmed by Christmas this year. Not by the celebration of Christ's birth, but by the magnification of the loss of the one I loved. Oh sad Christmas songs--you and your gleeful melodies and ironically heart breaking lyrics--I never understood you, but oh how tragically I comprehend you now!

I am trying my very best to focus on Christ and the true meaning of Christmas; to keep Him at the center and still find joy in the wonderful holiday. But I must also allow myself to grieve this loss. It is only natural for me to feel lonely at this time.

I was driving and feeling like the weight of this world might just crush my shoulders at any moment. I felt lonely. I was listening to Klove radio and in between songs a man shared a story that made me stop the car and burst into tears. His word gave me such encouragement--such hope--and I want to share that with you too. The man said that although we might be experiencing such incredibly hard times--the fact that we are still breathing and on this earth is proof that God's will is not yet complete for us. Proof that God has marvelous things in store. He said that if God's will is not yet complete for us, that means that the most wonderful best times of our lives are yet to come! So even through these trials we can have HOPE because our great loving God has so much better in store for us!

I just burst into a flood of tears! What a message my soul needed! Times are hard. My heart is broken. I am lonely and sad. BUT...this is NOT the end! I am still here--I am still fighting this battle and living this life! There are so many marvelous things in store for me. Jesus loves me and has planned incredible things for me. To be used to further His kingdom and find fulfillment is it. Wow...thank you Lord!

This is not the end for you either. I don't know where you are today--how you are feeling or what troubles are knocking at your door. But please be encouraged my friends. The LORD your God has gone before you and has planned marvelous things for you. Even through pain and suffering, He will bring great joy--and that is how much He loves us!

"Yes, my soul, find rest in God; my hope comes from Him. Truly He is my Rock and my Salvation; He is my Fortress, I will not be shaken." (Psalm 62:1-2)

This song "My Hope is in You" by Aaron Shust is my song of the day. Please listen and be encouraged! Where is your hope?