
“My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness,” 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 (NLT).
When facing difficult situations, it can be easy to feel small and powerless. Scripture records many instances of men and women of God who persevered in great faith during harsh trials and challenges. I see these stories as gifts from the Lord for succeeding generations. We can learn so much, and glean great encouragement from those who have endured sometimes unimaginable hardship. Scripture reminds us, beautifully, that the Lord is with us—even in those dark moments when we may feel completely alone:
“When you go through deep waters, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown. When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you,” Isaiah 43:2 (NLT).
The following story, sent in by one of our ministry friends, is a great reminder of how to trust in the Lord through all life circumstances—the good, the bad and the ugly! Our ministry friend writes:
“As an international student in the United States, Esther certainly experienced many challenges. Her grandfather got seriously ill during her final exams, and she was not able to return home to say her last goodbye. She also lost her car just months after she bought it, and found out her boyfriend had left her for another girl. These are just a few things Esther was dealing with. Fortunately, some Christians befriended her and genuinely cared for her. They often invited her to Friday night Bible studies. She felt particularly fascinated in discussing the stories of Joseph and Job and how they dealt with major discouragement and disappointment in their lives. She knew that she didn’t have the wisdom and strength these men of God had displayed. A friend in the Bible study group wisely pointed her to God’s promise in Isaiah: ‘Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.’”
When going through trials, it helps to hold on to God’s examples of faithfulness. Friend, do not let doubt and fear creep in and mislead you. Remember that His grace and power can work wonders in our darkest moments!
“My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness,” 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 (NLT).
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