“The LORD also will be a refuge for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble. And those who know Your name will put their trust in You; for You, LORD, have not forsaken those who seek You.” Psalm 9:9-10

Troubled Times

Your ears have heard a dreaded diagnosis. Your beloved child has abandoned the faith he was taught from birth. Your finances are draining away. You have been betrayed by the one you pledged your heart to love. Your career is unraveling before your eyes. All your work has come to nothing. You ponder questions that only God can answer.

Jesus spent 33 years showing us the love and wisdom of God by His words and deeds. He gave all that He had to this lifelong work of redemption. At the end He was at the mercy of His enemies. They tried to break Him by beating Him, mocking Him, and humiliating Him. They lied about Him and made false accusations. The King of the Jews, the Lord of Life was crucified. They tried to bury Him.

The situation looks like disaster. It smells of defeat. Grief overwhelms, questions arise, and doubt lurks over every thought and emotion. Where is God? What of His promises? Anxiety sets in and depression is close behind. Sometimes it gets ugly.

They thought Jesus was over and done. They thought the itinerant preacher of good news was laid to rest in a dark and cold tomb. They assumed from all appearances that this radical rabbi was forever silenced. But they were wrong.

It was not over. In fact, it was just beginning. His suffering and sacrifice brought the victory of our salvation. His death brought His enemies defeat. His suffering birthed salvation. His stripes generated healing. His departure effected the coming of the Holy Spirit upon us for power to live as His children and be His witness to the world.

Appearances can be deceiving. God is always more than our need. No suffering or pain is wasted in His kingdom. “Let patience have its perfect work” (James 1:4). Trust in the God who triumphs no matter how long it may take. He has an eternal plan for a glorious good. When things look like defeat, look like death, look like burial, remember God is not finished. Jesus is indomitable, incapable of being subdued, unconquerable. Jesus will arise! You will yet praise Him.

“Father, You are the hope we hold onto. Grant us light in this dark night of the soul. Lead us safely to our desired haven and bring about all Your good purposes as You change us from glory to glory into the image of Your beloved Son. We trust in You. Amen.”