Doing my Bible reading this morning, I came across a text in 2 Corinthians 1:8 that got me thinking of present day Christians. Being an “old guy” I am not expecting the world to be all rosy and perfect. I understand living in the real world. I like to think I am a realist not a pie in the sky kind of person. However, I am a man of faith and have experienced God do great miracles and moved spiritual mountains for me. The text here talks of Paul despairing of life so much that he says he “had the sentence of death within ourselves,” even more he says “we would not trust in ourselves.” Can you imagine the great Apostle Paul feeling down and depressed? Not sure of where to turn or what decision to make? Makes me feel better. I have been there. Down and sad and not sure of my next decision.

Don’t be afraid of showing the Lord your feelings, he already knows. Life is tough and this present world is sick, but the Lord is a very present help in our time of need. He already knows our feelings and Jesus is touched by our pain. He stands ever ready to help us and comfort us.

Notice what Paul says next, “but in God who raises the dead; who delivered us from so great a peril of death, and will deliver us, He on whom we have set our hope.” When we place our hope in Jesus we will never lack or be disappointed.

Much of what I do with CCCoalition is outside the church and I have learned that the Lord is always present to help. Don’t give up, keep fighting, God will see you through it. Rh