Christ offers hope despite tumultuous times

Once again, a new year has dawned. The old year has passed into the records of time and we are beginning again, afresh and anew.

As a Christian, however, each day is to be a new day. Each moment should offer the excitement of knowing the Lord, relying on his promises, trusting in his grace and serving him with a fervor that will affect this world in which we live.

How many of us are walking in this truth? If not, let’s embrace it now and turn the corner into a newness filled with the refreshing presence of the Lord in our life. The truth is that no matter what we may experience, Jesus is there with us and for us providing the victory, “through it all.”

Despite the circumstances, and many times against all adversity or human reasoning we are made able to overcome the obstacles. Our reliance and trust must first be placed where it belongs, with the Lord. By doing so, we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us. So, rise up from discouragement today and prepare yourself for great things that the Lord has planned for your life, regardless of how it looks.

In Romans 8:28 Scripture reads, “And we know that God causes all things to work together for good, to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” This Scripture is filled with hope and a blessed assurance.

Our concern and fear over all the “what ifs” in life will not change circumstances or give us the victory. Our trust and reliance upon the God we serve will afford us to be “more than conquerors” in the battle of life. We know in whom we believe and must be persuaded that no matter what life holds, he is able to give us what is needed, appropriately dispersed at the right time.

For some, the trials seem too many to mention and carry great emotional significance. The heartbreak has been real and the wounds deeper than can be absorbed with a finite mind, yet you remain firmly a recipient of God’s promise. In times such as these, his overwhelming grace will hold you up and see you through. He will cause all things, both good and bad, to work together for your benefit.

God promised he would be for us and with us in each and every battle. God’s word is his bond with us. Through God’s word, we have consolation. Through prayer, we have his perfect peace, which will help silence our fears. His divine strength will provide us with the encouragement needed to rise above discouragement. As we commit our lives to the Lord, our steps are ordered by him. Those steps will never lead us where his grace cannot keep us.

Yes, we are experiencing tumultuous times. There is uncertainty, fear and concern. For the Christian, there is life and there is hope. There is encouragement and there is a future. There is help in times of trouble, and there is strength for today and tomorrow. The plans the Lord has for you may not yet be revealed, but be of good courage and continue in faith: Your future is a blessed one because God says so.

XPatty Scahill of Austintown, who is a conference speaker, author and hospice chaplain, attends Christian Life Church in Canfield.