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How, Lord … can I cope with hardships?
In the Word
“… And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes” (Revelation 7:17b).
Of the Word
Life doesn’t always unfold the way it was planned. Expectant parents don’t plan for babies born with birth defects or mental handicaps. Accidents that leave loved ones paralyzed were not part of the plan for their future. Loved ones living alternate life-styles so different from the way they were raised isn’t part of the happily-ever-after life envisioned for them.
The complications that accompany any of these situations, along with dozens more we could name, can become overwhelming because we can’t change anything! We question God … “How can I cope with this?” God knows our heartache and assures us that [we] … can do everything through him who gives [us] strength (Philippians 4:13).
Life’s challenges may not change, so we must believe that there are no limits to what God can do in and through us. We will face adversity; how we deal with it is what is important. Learning to rely on God, in good times and bad, will be our source of comfort and strength.
Walking with my Lord
Lord, forgive me for being fearful during difficult times. In my frailty please make me strong. Lift me up, Father, so I can give You glory. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Mustard Seed: How, Lord? Marcia Gomulka and Myrna Lou Meyer, authors. 7/32 ©2011 Lutheran Women’s Missionary League, 801 Seminary Place Ste. L010, St. Louis, MO 63105. www.lwml.org
Unless otherwise indicated, Scripture quotations were taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. All rights reserved worldwide.
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