Remain Steadfast

Life can be so unpredictably hard sometimes. As I look at my own life I am sometimes discouraged. My baby girl who is almost 10 months old has a profoundly serious brain injury she acquired due to a bacterial infection. The doctors have told us that she only has 5% of her brain tissue left. She is so special and as I look at her beautiful little round face, it’s so hard to fathom her diagnosis. In fact, I can’t think on it too long or it will suck me into a hole of despair. Challenges are those things that happen that we have no control over. That lost job, that diagnosis, that broken down car, or that busted pipe that will cost hundreds of dollars, that you don’t have, to fix. Challenges arise in this physical life that feel all consuming. I believe that’s why God reminds us that we do not live for this life. We live for an eternal life with Him.

As I think back on how we got to this point in life, I cling to God and His word. As I encounter God’s love and remember His promises my heart is renewed and I can continue to move on. Day by day, moment by moment. I don’t move on as if nothing bothers me, but I move forward not being distracted or thrown off course. I can continue to put my energy into raising my sweet babies. James 1: 12 says “Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial. For when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love Him.” God has promised us eternal life if we love Him. That does not mean life isn’t hard, it’s incredibly hard. At some point you will endure a trial, a hardship, or a terrible circumstance. But nothing is bigger than God’s love. If you have no hope, you will be consumed. That’s why I clinch so hard onto God’s love.

What difficulties have you endured? What challenges are discouraging you today, right now?

 I urge you to trust God. Encounter His love for yourself. Acknowledge the challenge, but don’t let it consume you. That challenge will fade, and enteral life will remain. Let God’s love carry you through.