“Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength” (Isaiah 40:31).
Hard times come to all of us. The challenges we face can be financial stresses, health concerns, family issues, or personal disappointments. What happens when hard times seem to last too long? We know what to do and what God expects of us, but sometimes we are just too tired or discouraged to continue. Where can we find strength?
Six years ago, I lived in a hospital with our son who was fighting cancer. His treatment lasted 13 long and painful months. Although I had many wonderful people praying for me, I felt the treatment would never end. Then I discovered that the best source of strength is God.
Isaiah 40:28, 29 says it well: “Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.”
You may have good friends and family surrounding you, but everyone who endures hard times learns this secret: You ultimately walk through hard times alone. People want to help you, but no one really knows exactly how you feel except you.
Remember, God is there. He wants to be close to you and He will speak to your heart. Rely on Him to keep you going when times are hard and you are tired. Try to tackle just one hour at a time. Be of good courage and know that difficult times never last and our God is eternal!
Kimberly Snider is a missionary to the Philippines.
From “Moments for Moms,” a free email subscription.
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