For some of us 2020 has been a year of loss. It may be a loss of income, job, home or business. It may just be a sense of losing freedom and flexibility. For some it has even been the loss of a loved one. Within the Pine Brook Camp family we have seen losses that cover the whole spectrum. We have prayed for families that have suffered loss or been hospitalized. In some cases we are still praying for these families in need.
Life is fragile. We are not guaranteed a tomorrow. We believe in the sovereignty of a mighty, loving God. We can take hold of faith that God is acutely aware of our situations, struggles and hurts. He is not only aware, but he is in the midst of these dark times as well. Romans 8:28 says, “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” (NKJV)
In light of difficult times this verse can be tough to digest or to even believe. However, in faith we know that God has this. We know that He has us. We know that he will work on our behalf, for His honor and glory. As believers, we are in process; He is not done working in our lives and God will use these tough times as well as the times of blessing.
Maybe you are at a low point in life. Maybe 2020 has been a “sucker punch” for you. Have you lost faith? Maybe you have even thought that God is against you. Doubt is normal. Fear is natural. But we are called to faith. Faith in the God who created you. Faith in the God who holds all things in His hands. Faith in the God who passionately pursued you through the death and resurrection of His Son. When times are tough and life just seems too hard, remember that we have a living hope.
1 Peter 1:6-7 says, “In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith- of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire- may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed.” (NKJV)
We have hope! If there is one thing that we need to share with our World it is our faith and hope. In times of darkness and discouragement our hope shines even brighter. I encourage you to speak of the hope, your faith and joy that is found in Christ Jesus. Share it with your children. Don’t allow the challenges of the day to discourage them. Share this hope, share it with your friends. They need to know that there is hope. Come together as a family, pray for others, pray for each other, pray for our Nation and for our leaders. Pray that those you love will come to find faith in Jesus Christ.
These are difficult times. But we can learn to see the positives! I trust that this little series on Covid Positives has given you some time to reflect on what is important and to see God’s blessings even in the midst of trials. If anyone wants to learn more about how to have a relationship with Jesus Christ, please feel free to contact anyone here at Pine Brook. We’d be happy to share the hope that is found in Him.
A COVID Positive experience can be found here: