Courage Under StressSample

The End of Stress Forever

Can you imagine a place where stress does not exist? Imagine life free from anxious thoughts, sleepless nights, and endless “what ifs”—where God wipes away every tear from our eyes and all things become new.

It may be hard to picture, but it’s not science fiction. It will be real! The creator of the universe cares enough about us not only to wipe our tears away but also to prepare a new world for us. What love! What grace! What a Savior! And even more, he promises an end to sorrow, pain, and death FOREVER. There aren’t adequate words to express our praise for such amazing grace! And yet, many of us have a difficult time accepting that the love and grace Jesus offers is a free gift—it cannot be earned.

You may be suffering today, and the image of God wiping away your tears may sound too good to be true. Typically, family and friends offer this kind of comfort, but God is also a true friend. It is in seasons of grief and overload that we grow close to the Lord and to the earthly friends he sends us. If you’re currently struggling to find this kind of friend, ask God for someone special.

Diana has a chronic physical condition that makes it hard to leave the house. Most of her friends have stopped visiting, but she gains strength and encouragement by leaving them thirty-second voicemails. In her messages, Diana sings old hymns and asks the Lord to bless that person. Ryan has severe panic attacks around people, but he writes a successful blog that is viewed by individuals across the world. In finding a way to serve others, both Diana and Ryan have experienced their tears being wiped away.

God promises to make all things new in heaven. Our new bodies will no longer suffer human hardship. Our new relationships will be characterized by an absence of conflict—no violence, abuse, or divorce. We’ll be free from sin and its long-term consequences in our lives. New life in heaven will be stress-free . . . forever!

Lord, you are the one who wipes tears away, eliminates sorrow and pain, and makes all things new. Please help us live like we believe in the eternity you’ve promised. Encourage us through the hourly trials we suffer. We love you so much!

This devotional reading plan is from the Beyond Suffering Bible published by Tyndale House Publishers in partnership with Joni and Friends. Discover More.