10-03-2021 3:01am

Strong spirits: where to find hope

Photo: Fardin Khan, Unsplash

Sometimes life gets to be too much. Sometimes we are overwhelmed, distressed, discouraged, even despairing. We feel stuck, and don't know how to get set free. When that is true for you, you need to know where to find help, where to get hope.

I recently spoke with two community leaders, one in the medical field, and one a policeman. Both expressed deep concern for their colleagues- too few trying to do too much. It is a formula for depression, exhaustion, and burnout. Again, unless there is some relief, some hope for change, it can be overwhelming.

The Bible assures us we are not alone; that God is on our side; that if we are in a relationship with him, he will never leave us, and will give us all we need at the right time to meet whatever challenge we face.

"You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the LORD Almighty, the God of the armies of Israel whom you have defied. This day, the LORD will hand you over to me..." David to Goliath (1 Samuel 17:45,46)

"Those who know your name will trust in you, for you, LORD, have never forsaken those who seek you." David again (Psalm 9:10)

"Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit..." Paul the apostle (Romans 5:3-5)

Don't go it alone. We need each other, and we need God. If we have him, we have HOPE! Hang On, Pray Endlessly!

Gary Schwerin serves as pastor of Caledonia Congregational Church. He is also the Executive Director of Bridge Ministries of Rockford and Spiritual Development Minister for the YMCA of the Rock River Valley. His column appears every Sunday.