Living The Psalms With Jesus: Grow Closer To God Through PrayerSample

"Comfort and Encouragement"

There is no tragedy God cannot turn around for good. Do you believe that? It’s hard to live in this world without that assurance. One of the reasons Jesus came to this world was to proclaim that a new dawn has awakened. Anyone who trusts in him will be taken through any storm in life. Any loss, any death, will only make us stronger. Yes, even death itself will not be tasted for those who put their trust in God.

Many of the Psalms are songs of encouragement, to remind God’s people that there is no difficulty that cannot be overcome. Jesus said, “Unless a kernel of grain falls into the ground and dies, it remains only a seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds.” This is the resurrection mystery: In the kingdom of God, all tragedy will be redeemed. Psalm 23 tells us that, even though we walk through the valley of the shadow of death, we have nothing to fear.

I look back and know that unless I had gone through some dark times in my life, I wouldn’t be who I am today. All the wisdom and strength I have is because God was with me in the difficult times. I didn’t like being there. It was hard and I was often afraid. But looking back, I know that without those challenges I wouldn’t be the man God has made me to be.

You can be sure that God is faithful. His love endures forever and he will not leave you alone. No matter what challenges you face in life, you are perfectly safe in his presence.

Prayer: Dear Father, there are no more comforting words than “You are not alone.” Thank you for your faithful, enduring love and companionship. I feel safe and protected in your presence. Amen.