Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the Lord. (Ps. 31:24)
When troubles come, which way do we run first? When faced with sickness, temptation, or grief, which way do we run first? Sometimes in those turbulent times, those times when God seems distant, it is easier to run first to the things of the world. But, sometimes we have it backwards. When troubles do indeed come, we must run to our refuge first; we must run to the fortress of the Lord. This is not say God does not work through things of this earth—friends, doctors, other resources. But, the question is which way do we run first?
What does it look like to run to God first in the midst of suffering? Choose to praise God no matter what. Be honest with God with how you’re feeling because your feelings are valid and real. Always recognize this world is broken, but God is God and God is good, from beginning to end.
Every day, no matter the circumstances, surrender yourselves to God, and trust in his plan. Even when God feels quiet, his presence is there, surrounding you and comforting you. Cry out to the Lord, to guide you and deliver you from evil. Worship the Lord with love and vigor, lift his name up on high, stay true to him. God’s arms are open, run to him, and rest in his faithfulness.
When troubles come, take refuge in God’s presence.
Ethan Zent is a fourth-year student at Kingswood University studying worship arts, with a strong desire to share God’s love through song and word.
© 2020 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission.
Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
