I spent three days this week in Kerrville serving as a chaplain along with some of my fellow chaplains from the state of Texas.  I listened to a lot of stories and lifted up a lot of prayers for people who are still reeling from the recent floods in the Hill Country.  As I reflected on the overwhelming grief that so many expressed, I was reminded of David’s words in Psalm 31:9-10.  David wrote:

“Be gracious to me, O LORD, for I am in distress; my eyes grow weak with sorrow, my soul and my body with grief.  For my life is spent with sorrow and my years with sighing…”  Psalm 31:9-10

In many other psalms, David expressed the same feeling; one of being overwhelmed by grief, despair and the trials and tribulations of life.  Yet through it all David never gave up.  David leaned on his faith.  In Psalm 31 David speaks of how, in the midst of his sadness and tough times, he cried to the Lord and the Lord delivered him.  David ends the psalm with an exhortation to all who feel distressed and discouraged.

“Be strong and let your heart take courage, all you who hope in the LORD.”  Psalm 31:24 

My heart aches for the people who experienced such devastating losses in the recent floods.  As I talked with people this week, many were also facing other trials of life and they are indeed feeling overwhelmed.  Maybe you can relate to that today.  Maybe you are feeling overwhelmed by grief, despair and the trials and tribulations of life.  Maybe you are not sure if you can go on.  You can.  You can be strong in the Lord.  You can receive courage from the Lord.  You can make it through whatever situation you face through the power that Jesus Christ offers you!  Don’t give up and don’t give in!  His peace is available right here, right now in this earthly realm for all who will trust in Him.  The sun will rise tomorrow and the Lord will be with you.  He will help you face the day!  He will help you to be strong and have courage.

If you or someone you know could use some extra prayers today, just put a note down below.  No details are necessary, the Lord knows what is on your heart.  And you can know that myself and others will be praying for you and with you, asking the Lord to intervene in your situation and bless you with an extra measure of His mercy, His grace, His strength, and His love.