Tuesday, Dec 31

Scriptures: Lamentations 3:24-26 (NIV) – “I say to myself, ‘The Lord is my portion; therefore I will wait for him.” The Lord is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him; it is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord.”

Micah 7:7 (NIV) – “But as for me, I watch in hope for the Lord, I wait for God my Savior; my God will hear me.”

Message: My only son is in prison. Part of my heart is locked behind barbed wire, nibbling on miserable rations, feasting on sorrow. Fear is real. Safety not so much. Some people are released without much time, while others serve long sentences that feel unjust. Hope is a scarce commodity.

I lie awake nights praying for his safety. We are looking at too many years to wrap my mind around. My heart feels shattered. It’s easy to catastrophize, believing all the worst scenarios.

Then I remember my God, who loved me so much that He came to earth as a tiny, helpless baby to bring hope to the hopeless. My King, who rules the universe, surely can make everything beautiful in its time. My Prince of Peace, who calmed the waves and storm, can absolutely still my anxious heart. My powerful creator nurtures and sustains His greatly loved creation.

God always provides for me in times of need. He gifts me the skills and resources to see me through. God faithfully stands by my side when I need Him most. He will be there for my son. He is a God who loves, provides, and comforts. He is my God of hope.

Micah said, “But as for me, I watch in hope for the Lord, I wait for God my Savior; my God will hear me.”

I hope in God’s goodness. I rest in His love. I linger in God’s presence.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, sometimes I feel so small and broken. Please calm my anxious heart. Because You are good, I confidently rest in You. Because You never fail me, I wait patiently for You with a heart full of hope. You are the God of all hope. Fill me with Your joy and peace as I trust in You. Please be with those I love, comforting and protecting them. You are the loving, all-powerful God. Grant me the strength to remain confident that I will see Your goodness. Amen.

Mary Schilling - see 2 of 2
Grace Bible Church
Sebring, Florida