The overall consensus on my Facebook feed is that 2016 wasn't the greatest year. I know a lot of people who suffered personal loss, felt under attack, were given more than their fair share of challenges. As a nation, we witnessed brutal attacks on our own soil, saw a nation divided in an ugly election where I think it's safe to say, the majority of voters didn't like the results. The world seems more in upheaval than ever. I keep seeing people saying 2017 will be a better year. I so hope that is true, but it isn't a certainty. We are tired. We need hope.
I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world. - John 16:33
You then, my child, be strengthened by the grace that is in Christ Jesus. - 2 Timothy 2:1
I feel a burden. For the people who are hurting. For the people who feel lost. I have struggled with my purpose as of late. The more I've asked God to help me figure it out, the more burdened I feel. The heavier my heart gets. Yet, I find myself praising Him more fully. Feeling His presence. Where I fail, He fills in.
He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. - Isaiah 40:29-31
Whenever we feel despair, we need to praise Him. When the weight of the world is crushing us like a mountain, we need to remember that He has overcome the world and He will lift our burden in His timing. There is always hope. Always. Even when it doesn't feel like it, it's there. We aren't guaranteed happiness and success in this life. Our trials may seem great and endless, still we praise Him.
Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds - James 1:2
For everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith. - 1 John 5:4
There is so much that doesn't make sense in this world. I don't have all (if any) of the answers. But, I know the truths that God has given us. I know He fulfills his promises. Even if you have been sobbing into the carpet, on your knees, crying out to God when all seems lost and you feel so alone. When you feel like you can't go on because the pain is to great, He's there. Let Him carry you. Let your hope be in Him. Because if your hope is in the world, it will fail you. Every time.
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
Is Anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing praise. - James 5:13
Will 2017 be a better year? I sure hope so! I will continue to choose hope, no matter what. I will continue to praise Him always. He hasn't let me down yet.
Lyrics: Even When it Hurts - Hillsong
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