We’re living in difficult and upsetting times. Sometimes we all need a moment to chance to de-stress and reflect on the good things in our life. We deserve to find the happiness that we imagined for our selves when we were little kids. As bad as things may seem from time to time, we can find the good in the people and the things of our lives.
God Loves You
Beauty is often found in the smallest things. When the storm is raging in the world around us, the most delicate baby birds are nestled under the feathers of the mamma bird, safe until the storm passes. Can I tell you: God loves you! Not just in a general, far-off way, but personally, deeply, and intimately. He knows everything about you—the struggles you face, the dreams that keep you going, even the quiet, hidden things you may not have shared with anyone. And still, His love for you remains unshakeable. He created you with purpose, with talents and gifts that no one else has. You’re not a random part of His creation; you’re His masterpiece, crafted in love.
Maybe you feel like you’ve made too many mistakes, like you’ve wandered too far for God to reach you. But God’s love doesn’t have limits. He sees past the mistakes and sees the person you’re becoming. He wants to walk with you, to guide you through life’s ups and downs. The scripture says, “Nothing can separate us from the love of God.” Nothing you’ve done and nothing that’s been done to you can keep you from that love.
So today, open your heart to His love. Let it fill you up, strengthen you, and remind you that you’re never alone. God is right there with you, believing in you, cheering you on. You are loved, valued, and cherished more than you could ever imagine.
God Wants You Happy
So often, we think of God as a distant figure, only concerned with rules and what we “should” be doing. But the truth is, God loves to see you smile, to see your heart filled with peace and contentment. Just like any loving parent, His heart is moved when He sees you enjoying life and feeling fulfilled.
God placed desires and dreams within you for a reason. They aren’t random—they are gifts He’s given you, invitations to the abundant life He promised. Scripture tells us, “The joy of the Lord is your strength.” That means your happiness isn’t just a nice extra; it’s central to the life God envisions for you. He knows that when you’re joyful, you’re stronger, healthier, and better able to share His love with others.
Now, happiness doesn’t mean life is always easy. There are seasons of challenge, but even then, God is there to lift you up. He’s saying, “Keep going, keep trusting—better days are ahead.” Trust that God’s joy will be your guide, filling your life with purpose and a deep, lasting happiness that nothing can shake.
God Helps Those Who Believe
When you choose to trust and believe, you’re inviting God to step into your situation and do what only He can do. You can find the proof of God’s favor everywhere if you simply call upon it! In the Bible, young David was facing a giant, an enemy so much bigger and stronger than he was. But David didn’t rely on his own strength or skills; he relied on his faith in God. He said to Goliath, “You come against me with sword and spear, but I come against you in the name of the Lord Almighty.” David knew that God was on his side, and that faith gave him the courage to face a seemingly impossible situation.
And what happened? With just a small stone and his trust in God, David defeated the giant. That same power is available to you. No matter what obstacles or challenges you’re facing, when you stand in faith and believe, God will help you overcome them. He may not always remove every challenge immediately, but He will give you the strength, wisdom, and courage to face them. So be bold, like David. Step forward, knowing that God is with you, ready to help you every step of the way.
When All Hope is Lost
We must all remember that God specializes in doing the impossible, even when all hope seems lost. One of the most powerful stories in the Bible is the raising of Lazarus. Lazarus was not just sick—he had been in the tomb for four days. His family and friends had already mourned him, and by all earthly standards, his story was over. But when Jesus arrived, He didn’t see an impossible situation; He saw an opportunity for God’s glory to shine.
Jesus said, “Did I not tell you that if you believe, you will see the glory of God?” And then, in front of everyone, He called out, “Lazarus, come forth!” And at that moment, Lazarus walked out of the tomb, alive and whole.
For ordinary, everyday people like us, I can tell you that miracles do indeed happen. When they arrive, they almost always come in a plain, brown wrapper. I recall one such story of a woman who was in a terribly difficult, even hopeless state but God was working a plan for her, you might even say it was a “magical” answer to prayer.
She was a struggling single mother living on government assistance, dealing with depression and poverty. She obeyed the passion in her heart, writing a manuscript, mostly in cafes, often pushing through her circumstances with a firm belief in her story. Her manuscript was rejected by 12 publishers before being finally accepted by Bloomsbury in 1997. When published, Harry Potter quickly became a literary sensation, eventually growing into one of the most successful book series in history. Rowling’s journey from hardship to global success is a testament to her unwavering belief and dedication, inspiring millions to pursue their dreams despite difficulties
This story reminds us that no matter how bleak things look, God is never too late. He can bring life to what seems dead, turn around what seems beyond hope, and create miracles out of our mess. Maybe you’re facing a situation that feels like it’s over, a dream that feels buried, or a relationship that seems beyond repair. Don’t give up. God is able to bring hope, healing, and life. Trust Him, because even when it seems like all is lost, He is still working.
Persevere
Jesus warned “…to whom much is given, of him shall be much required: and to whom men have committed much, of him they will ask the more.” Luke 12:48.
It’s easy to accept that when God gives us something big, He would rightfully require us to do something good with it, but what if we must do the good before we get it? What if we ask God for fame and honor. Certainly we would want to use it for good after we’ve gotten it, but the fame and honor may only come after we’ve been faithful to do the thing that God requires of us.
There was once a man of great ambition and passion. This man rose through the ranks of power and notoriety in his home country but was dashed down by some public failures; he was largely ridiculed by the elites of his day. By a bizarre twist of fate, he found himself thrust into leadership by those same elites; secretly setting him up as a scapegoat as they knew that their nation was about to fall into the hands of their most frightful enemy. Winston Churchill may have become British Prime Minister but it was a doomed position.
In the face of immense adversity in 1939, Winston Churchill’s inner strength and unwavering persistence became a beacon of hope for Britain. As Hitler’s forces swept across Europe, devastating countries one by one, Britain stood in grave peril, almost isolated and encircled by advancing Axis powers. Churchill, known for his strong convictions and fiery spirit, became Prime Minister in May 1940, determined to lead the nation in its most critical hour.
Churchill’s resolve was rooted in a profound belief in the value of democracy and freedom. He had a deep understanding of the dangers posed by tyranny, and he refused to yield, even when the odds seemed insurmountable. While many leaders and members of Parliament considered negotiating with Hitler to spare Britain the devastation of war, Churchill’s refusal to even entertain surrender kept Britain from capitulating. His faith that Britain could withstand the Nazi onslaught galvanized a weary population, helping them to believe that victory, though distant, was achievable.
One of Churchill’s greatest strengths was his ability to communicate his vision and inspire hope. His speeches became legendary; in powerful and poetic language, he encouraged Britain to fight on, whatever the cost. In his stirring “We shall fight on the beaches” speech, he famously declared, “We shall never surrender,” a sentiment that resonated deeply with the British people. Through his words and actions, Churchill transformed fear and uncertainty into resilience, rallying not just soldiers but ordinary citizens to stand strong.
Churchill’s persistence and faith in the face of such darkness inspired Britain to endure through the blitz and unimaginable hardships, ultimately playing a crucial role in the Allied victory. His leadership remains a testament to the power of inner strength and unwavering commitment to principle.
Churchill has found his place in history as one of the greatest leaders, saving the world from the horrors of the Nazis. You might say, to him, who was faithful to do much, God gave much, much honor and fame.
Conclusion
No matter what you’re facing today, I want to encourage you: trust God and keep going. Life can bring unexpected challenges, disappointments, and even seasons that feel overwhelming. But remember, God is with you in every step, and He’s already gone ahead of you, preparing a way. Proverbs 3:5 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.” That means even when things don’t make sense, we can hold onto Him and find strength in His faithfulness.
When you trust God, you’re not just trusting in a distant figure; you’re trusting in a loving Father who cares about every detail of your life. He knows the dreams you have, the struggles you’re facing, and even the things that keep you up at night. Sometimes the journey may be long, and you might feel like giving up, but don’t lose hope. The Bible tells us, “Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles.” God promises to strengthen you as you lean on Him, giving you the endurance you need.
Perseverance isn’t always easy. It’s that decision to keep going when you’d rather stop, to stay strong when life tries to wear you down. But remember, God sees every effort, every tear, and hears every prayer. Just as He brought David through his battles and Joseph through his years of hardship, He will bring you through this season, too. Trust that He’s working behind the scenes, aligning things for your good.
So hold on, because God’s timing is perfect, and His plans for you are good. Stay in faith, persevere, and know that blessings are coming. God is faithful, and He will see you through to victory. Your best is still ahead.