Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
The Adult Bible Class recently concluded a study entitled, “A Matter of the Heart: Comfort From God’s Word in Hard Times.” I began the class by asking everyone what they equate with “hard times.” Some of the answers were: financial challenges or loss, marital problems, the misbehavior of children, job loss or job unhappiness, a faith crisis, physical ailments that don’t seem to get better, death of a loved one, and a family relationship that has gone sour. What would you add to the list? How would you define a “hard time” in your life?
Did Jesus have hard times? Many people would say no because after all He is God and He knows and controls everything. That misses who Jesus was. Yes, he was divine, but he was also human. He had friends die. He was dismissed by his hometown. His closest allies ran as fast as they could away from him when it looked like they would be associated with him. His teachings were always being disputed. He stated, “the Son of Man had nowhere to lay his head.” Yes, Jesus had times when things did not go his way. He can relate to you and I.
This Son of Man came “to seek and save the lost.” This Son of Man came “to give his life as a ransom for many.” Jesus is there in all of our times not just our “hard times.” He hears our prayers and answers according to His Will. He is always there as a caring, loving Savior.
I pray that your “hard times” strengthen your faith and draw you closer to your Savior.
In Christ,
Pastor