Dear HLPC family,
This passage has been heavy on my mind and heart the past couple of days: On the day I called, you answered me; my strength of soul you increased (Psalm 138:3, ESV). It’s the words of David who endured many years of trial before he ascended to the throne in Israel.
The NIV translates this verse as When I called, you answered me; you greatly emboldened me. David expresses confidence in the Lord to answer prayer. He also is helped by the Lord to face his trials with courage and faith.
I found this helpful because sometimes we face trials that don’t go away. That’s hard—very hard. The Lord doesn’t choose to remove the cause of our pain and suffering. Yet, He promises He won’t abandon us. He can send encouragement and strength. He is able to make us bold and confident in Him to sustain us. Our trials seem more than we can handle but are never more than HE can handle.
Maybe you need to hear that today in the midst of struggles that won’t quit. Some in our church family are facing overwhelming burdens right now. May God hear your prayers and strengthen your heart to persevere. Like Jesus in that boat in the storm on the Sea of Galilee, may He see you through the storm when He doesn’t see fit to take you around it.
Your Pastor,
Paul