Mark 6:50b But Jesus spoke to them at once, “Don’t be afraid,” He said. “Take courage! I am here!”

Whatever we go through in life, we have the assurance from God’s Word that we are not alone. Jesus is with us and He promises to never leave nor forsake us (Hebrews 13:5b). He will be faithful to remain with us during life’s darkest moments. He told His disciples in Mark 6:50, “Don’t be afraid, but take courage. I am here!” Likewise, Jesus tells believers to not fear, but to be bold, hold fast to Him, stand firm on His Word, and believe that His presence is always with us.

Often times, we tend to take our eyes off the Lord when a trial comes our way. We shift our attention to our circumstances rather than keeping it on the Lord. When this happens, our perspective begins to change causing us to fear and worry while possibly doubting God’s sovereignty. The key is to have a biblical perspective and realize that trials will come into the life of every individual whether you are a Christian or not. No one is exempt. However, the believer can rest in the fact that he or she does not have to face their dark valleys alone, because Jesus is with them supplying His peace and carrying them through their storms.

John 16:33 says, “These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In this world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.”

Although it can be painful at times, I’m learning that my trials serve a higher purpose and the Lord is teaching me how to rejoice in the rain. It doesn’t feel like it in the moment, but they are working for my good and for His glory. In the midst of it, He is refining, building, and shaping my godly character while conforming me more and more into His likeness, strengthening my faith, and deepening my trust in Him.

Job 23:10 But He knows the way that I take; when He has tested me, I shall come forth as gold.

Ladies, I exhort you with the words of Jesus: “Don’t be afraid. Take courage! For He is with you!” When the storms of life come crashing in, don’t lose heart; instead, cling even more so to Jesus, keep your eyes on Him, pray for His will to be done, and trust His Sovereign plan for your life. Your trials serve a higher purpose than what you may see in the moment. Your pain will not be wasted. Endure well and believe that your trials are working in your favor and in time, they will bring glory to God.

God is GOOD and He does all things well!

Psalm 46:1 God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.

Psalm 34:17; 19 The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears, and delivers them out of all their troubles. (vs. 19) Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the Lord delivers him out of them all.

Psalm 145:17-19 The Lord is righteous in all His ways, gracious in all His works. The Lord is near to all who call upon Him, to all who call upon Him in truth. He will fulfill the desire of those who fear Him; He also will hear their cry and save them.