Lent – Day 31

God Brings Hope Out of Despair

“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10

“I waited patiently for the LORD; He turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; He set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear the LORD and put their trust in Him.” Psalm 40:1-3

“Then they cried to the LORD in their trouble, and He saved them from their distress. He brought them out of darkness, the utter darkness, and broke away their chains.” Psalm 107:13-14

We are coming out of a season of such unknowns. Our world is swirling in unrest. Things that were once certain seem fleeting and unreliable. Food supplies have dwindled and the shelves at the grocery store less dependable than ever before. Not the mention price increases on everything. Covid and it’s aftermath has triggered doubt and fear in our world. And trust has been broken on every level. Relationships strained to the breaking point.

It has been wearying for so many. Small businesses have closed, family members lost and the world turned upside down has created an environment for even the strongest of faith to fear and worry. Spiritually defeated as we were unable to gather corporately. The isolation alone has given satan ground to work his evil way into the minds and hearts of us all. None of us immune to the spiritual warfare that has ensued.

People have been weary and heavy laden. But God. This season is the reminder of life. Fronds unfurl and are poking up thru the forest floor. Fresh greenery springing up as a reminder that God is only one who can do that. I cannot will the daffodils return. I have no power over the sweet smelling flowers that open on my Carolina Jasmine. I am reminded of His power. New life. Hope. The promise that with the seasons, there will always be the hope of Spring.

I hear your stories. I see your discouragement. I have known your grief and sorrow. I know the doubts and fears that feel like they will take the last breath you have.

But God. His love so real. The promise of a Savior when He could have just turned His back on us.

Jesus.

Serving. Suffering. Surrendering. Dying. Living. Comforting. Loving.

He came that WE may have life.

Salvation. Things eternal.

Today, let’s bow down together at the foot of the cross. Grab your Bible. Saturate your mind with worshipping Him. Set your mind on the things that you know are true not what you think are true. Pour out your heart to God and seek His way. Claim the promises in His Word as trustworthy. Pour out your feelings and struggles in a prayer, journal or conversation with a trusted friend.

Read, memorize and pray through Psalm 91 and 2 Corinthians 10:3-5.

Finally, as a follower of Jesus Christ, use Jesus’ delegated authority (Matthew 28:18-20) to resist and rebuke any spiritual attacks.