This week several things have happened that have reminded me that I don’t walk this life alone; I always have the Lord at my side. We can go into the presence of the Most Holy God, trust Him, and have confidence in Him so we can lead our lives with pure hearts, forsaking evil desires because of His promise that has been given and kept; God is trustworthy, so we can be faith-worthy. We have Christ’s empowerment and His assurance for living. We can hold onto Christ tightly, and not waver when times are bad or we can’t see where we are or are going.

So no matter what is going on, we can hold fast to our hope in the Lord, because even when we aren’t, He is always faithful. “Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful; and let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near.” (Heb 10:23-25)

We are encouraged to persevere in our trials, with rejoicing because we have hope that can only come from the Lord. As we persevere in our trials, the persevering itself can encourage others to trust in Christ, have hope for living, and endurance in life and/or in any opportunities or setbacks we face. Our experience in trials can be an encouragement to others as they face similar trials. “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice! Let your gentle spirit be known to all men. The Lord is near. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Phil 4:4-7)

I’m reminded this morning that I can choose to grumble about circumstances, or I can keep my thoughts on the Lord, who gives me hope. It is my hope in Him, that gives me perfect peace. “You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You.” (Is 26:3) I choose to keep my mind on the Lord today, who generously gives me His joy and peace. What do you choose?

Father, thank You for the reminder that You give peace not as the world gives; and the peace the world offers isn’t true. Your peace surpasses all comprehension and will guard my heart and mind no matter what I face today. I praise You for only You can give me Your blessed assurance. In the precious name of Jesus, amen.