“Hope in Hard Times”

In times of trouble and great stress, we find ways to cope and get through whatever challenges we are facing. Some people seek out companionship with friends and family, some find solace in getting away from it all, some are strengthened by the experience of those who have overcome great adversity, some fall back on the best cure of all, chocolate!

While, it may be true that chocolate will ‘sweeten’ any trial or tribulation, it really can’t take away the fear, worry, and stress of a really hard time. Chocolate may help us cope, but it won’t make the pandemic that has changed our lives so much in the past 6 months go away. So, where can we turn?

“Do not let your hearts be troubled.” “Nothing can separate you from the love God.” “The Lord shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings like eagles.” “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” These are all verses from throughout the Bible that have reassured, strengthened, and encouraged people for centuries. I think there is comfort in knowing that we are not alone, that God knows what we are going through, that God walks with us through difficult times, and that God has given us a language for expressing our fears and for proclaiming our hope. Christians believe that even when things seem hopeless, hope is found in God’s Word and God’s presence. Thanks be to God.