‘The Lord is near to those who have a broken heart, And saves such as have a contrite spirit. Many are the afflictions of the righteous, But the Lord delivers him out of them all.’
Psalms 34:18-19
Life can be filled with constant turmoil and tribulation, where heartache seems never-ending. In these moments, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and lose hope. But take heart, for even in the midst of your trials, God is near. He sees your pain, and He is faithful to bring you comfort and peace.
In the Old Testament, we find the psalmist proclaiming the goodness of the Lord, assuring us that He is close to the brokenhearted. In times of distress, remember that God’s love and presence are unwavering. He is your refuge and strength, ready to carry you through every trial.
We are never promised a life of smooth sailing and roses. On the contrary, we are promised trials and much tribulation. Here are three Bible verses from the apostle Paul that highlight the reality of struggles and trials in the life of a believer:
2 Timothy 3:12 “Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.”
Romans 8:35 “Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword?”
2 Corinthians 4:8-9 “We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed.”
Turning to the four Gospels, we see Jesus, the Prince of Peace, offering solace to the weary and burdened. He says, “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). Find refuge in Jesus’ open invitation. Seek His presence, surrender your burdens to Him, and allow Him to bring you true rest and restoration.
The apostle Paul, who faced numerous tribulations from the moment God saved him reminds us of the glory ahead. He writes, “For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison” (2 Corinthians 4:17). Our trials may seem overwhelming now, but they are temporary. In the grand scheme of eternity, they pale in comparison to the glory that awaits us in Christ.
So, hold on to hope. Let the promises of God’s nearness, the rest found in Jesus, and the blessed hope offered by Paul’s words strengthen and encourage you. Remember that God is working in and through your tribulations, molding you into the person He created you to be for His purposes.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, in the midst of my turmoil and tribulation, I thank You for Your nearness and saving grace. Help me find rest, comfort, and strength to endure, knowing that Your plans for me are good and that what lay ahead for me is glorious. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
100% Unashamed of the gospel of grace.
- Salvation is by ‘Believing’ the Gospel by Faith Alone - April 21, 2024
- Counter-Cultural Humility: A Reflection on Philippians 2:3 - April 17, 2024
- Unbreakable: Finding Strength in Romans 8 - April 16, 2024
0 Comments