“The hardest years in life are those between 10 and 70.” ~ Helen Hayes, at age 82.
Isn’t that the truth?
When you’re a child, you can’t wait to grow up and be free! And when you’re a grown-up, you wish you could be a child again — so you could be free!
The reality is that life is hard at just about any age. Each age and stage of life has its own challenges, its own stresses, worries, and fears.
But Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever. And He has made us this precious promise:
He will never leave us nor forsake us. Even in the valley of the shadow of death, we fear no evil — for He is with us. (Psalm 23:4)
Notice the Scripture doesn’t say we experience no evil. Only that we don’t fear it. And that we never have to face it alone.
The Lord is my light and my salvation—
whom shall I fear?
The Lord is the stronghold of my life—
of whom shall I be afraid? (Ps 27:1)
Suffering is a part of this life. But so is His comfort, His strength, His peace.
“How sweet the name of Jesus sounds, in a believer’s ear! It soothes his sorrows, heals his wounds, and drives away his fear.” ~ John Newton
His perfect love casts out our fear. (1 Jn 4:18)
Because God wants us to be free from fear — at whatever age or stage of life we find ourselves in.
How do we know? More than 400 times in Scripture He tells us: “Fear not… Do not fear… Be not afraid… Take courage! … Take heart!”
If you find that you’ve been listening to your fears lately… if it feels your heart is filled, not with faith but with doubt and despair, remember His Word. Remember His constant and faithful presence. Remember His love, His mercy, His grace. Rejoice in His salvation — your salvation — today!
Today’s Question: Can you remember a time when you experienced His comforting presence, His miraculous provision or protection?
