I will declare your name to my people; in the assembly I will praise you. (Ps. 22:22)

My husband and I went from being ecstatic to sorrowful overnight months after the birth of our firstborn. Illness had crept up on me, stolen my energy, and caused a large lump to form in my chest, resulting in my doctor ordering a biopsy. So, intensely seeking the Lord, I went into a scheduled ultrasound in preparation for surgery—only to find that the lump had disappeared! Since my doctor’s own young wife had recently died of breast cancer, he had trouble believing that my problem could have disappeared overnight. We praised God for a miracle. While I had not enjoyed the months of being sick, I now see the purpose in this suffering. When I share this personal experience, others marvel at God’s power to heal and intervene.

In these verses, the psalmist spoke of being rejected and mistreated. This passage has often been connected to the hours leading up to and during Jesus’ death. More perfectly than we ever could, Jesus faced suffering and death while still praising God until the very end. Even in his pain, he was able to assure a repentant criminal of a future awaiting him in heaven.

Trust God in whatever situation you find yourself. Not only will he help you in your time of need, but he may also use your story to lead others to him.

Tell others of how God has helped you through hardship.

Caryl Aukerman—wife, missionary, and mother of three—has served with Global Partners in the country of Albania for over twelve years.

© 2020 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission.

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.