“We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed.” 2 Corinthians 4:8

Giving up is never an option for the child of God. Circumstances may become extremely challenging, and it appears as though we just cannot hang on any longer. But that’s when our inner strength steps in from our Comforter. He reminds us that “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” Philippians 4:13. He empowers us to cling to our faith and hope in God.

We cannot appreciate the view from the mountain top if we have never really been way  down deep in the valley. Each day, in every circumstance, God is at work molding and making us into the image of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. We cannot really see clearly now as to what we will be, but we can find hope and peace in the words of His faithful servant Job: “But he knoweth the way that I take: when he hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold.” Job 23:10.

Although life may lead us in uncharted waters, we can confidently say as the apostle Paul stated “We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed;” 2 Corinthians 4:8. In this too, we are more than conquerors through Jesus Christ our Lord who loves us!

God knows every step that we take, and we can trust in His divine providence to lead us to a hope and a future far greater than we can humanly comprehend. So let us take heart, regardless of whether we are on the mountain top or way down deep in the valley; by His power we can face whatever this season in our lives may bring. He is our Almighty and Everlasting Father, and He will take care of us! “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” Psalm 46:1

Finally, trust in the Lord and remember to:

• Take one day at a time
• Remember that all things work together for the good of those who love the Lord
• Under no circumstances should you worry
• Start every day with prayer and thanksgiving
• Hold on to His faithfulness; no matter what, the Lord will never leave us nor forsake us!