2 Corinthians 4: 7-9   

⁷ But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.

⁸ We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair;

⁹ Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed;

There are no guarantees in life....except the promise of salvation through Jesus Christ our Lord.

I have to admit, when adversity of the largest kind attacked my faith and security in life...I crumbled.  I fell apart.  I lost it.  Before, it happened, I know people considered me "strong in the Lord" and in truth, I thought I was as well.  After all, I had already been through some pretty difficult places in life and I came out the other side of those experiences pretty much in tact. But in 1998 I became a basket case as the result of my whole identity, and sense of security being pulled out from under me.

The Lord is merciful and full of grace to help us through any trial and any difficulty life may throw at us.  But I have discovered that we need not face life bravely for others in order to be a good example for Christ.   It is in our weakness that HE is shown to be strong..not us.  When we fall, the Lord picks us up and we give HIM the glory for our salvation.

I am still going forward albeit slowly..but with blessed assurance with each step I take. I will never falter from proclaiming that Jesus Christ is the Lord of my life and the Lord God Almighty is my Father.

So take heart you who are weak and suffering.  Jesus is near to the brokenhearted and He comforts us and gives us peace.  He will redeem you in His time and with His Great Love!