A doctor had to give a painful shot to a four-year-old girl. When she learned what the doctor was about to do, her face showed anxiety and her body tensed. As the doctor picked up what looked to the little girl to be a needle large enough to kill an elephant, she turned her eyes to her father, who then took her hand and fixed his eyes on hers. An expression of confidence and calmness came on her face. She knew she was not alone and found comfort, not in her father’s spoken answer, but in his presence with her in her time of need. (1)

Dear friends, it is no surprise that we are living in difficult times. The burdens of life are inescapable. Our lives, careers, families, and faith are being tried and challenged daily.

But as the story illustrates, we are not alone.

Despite the painful shots of life that come and pierce our hearts, we have a loving Father who is by our side who is willing to take our hand and comfort us in our time of need.

“Let your steadfast love comfort me according to your promise to your servant.”

Psalm 119:7

 

“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”

Psalm 46:1

 

“I lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come? My help comes from the LORD, who made heaven and earth.”

Psalm 121:1-2

These truths are but a few of the many anchors that keep us moored when the burdens of life blow upon us. But they only serve their purpose when our eyes are fixed on the One who calms the waves of the sea (Mark 4:35-41).

“But my eyes are toward you, O GOD, my Lord; in you I seek refuge; leave me not defenseless!”

(Psalm 141:8)

God calls us to look to Him, trust Him, and lean on Him daily.

Let me ask, when trouble strikes, where do you go or to whom do you trust?

Do you trust in self-reliance or do you trust in the LORD who holds all things in His hands?

Do you seek shelter in self-pity or do you take shelter in the Most High?

When darkness falls, do you walk in the light of your own counsel or do you seek out the word of God to light your way?

Let us search our hearts and answer these questions because if we don’t, the burdens of life will come and they will answer them for us.

May the LORD bless you and keep you.

Jim

---

Jim is a former Marine and retired California police officer. He has a passion for sharing his love for Jesus through writing and teaching.

(1) Green, Michael P., Illustrations for Biblical Preaching, page 21