This was the year I dreaded buying Christmas cards. Because you can search every shelf, but you won’t find one that reads, “Joy to the Lord! This year I doubted God!”
For the first time in my life, I had questioned God’s goodness. I questioned His sovereignty. I questioned my own adherence to beliefs that weren’t doing a thing in the face of a particular grief. I also published two books, took a spontaneous road trip with my husband and kids, and survived working from home while also helping my daughters do school at home.
How could all of that be true at the same time? In the same year? How could a big, wonderful, beautiful year also contain some serious anguish and doubt that shook me to my core? How could one small season hold the weight of enormous blessings and crushing burdens?
I’m not sure how it’s possible, but I know it’s true. All the amazing things that happened aren’t less real or less valuable because of my struggle. And the fact that I wrestled with my faith in a new and painful way wasn’t reduced by the fact that I experienced a lot of joy. Our lives are full of both joy and pain — often at the very same time. And that’s okay. We can acknowledge both. We can hold both.
And we can worship God through both.
The good parts of the year are actually richer because of the thread of pain and doubt and struggle that winds through the weeks and months. Only by seeing the good and the hard intertwined and overlapping do I see how faithful God has been to me.
He’s not just here when you’re happy. He’s not just here when you’re grateful. He’s not just here when you’re rock solid, believing with all your heart. He’s here, always, no matter what. He’s here no matter how much your circumstances, your life, or your heart change. He’s here, and He never changes.
“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.”
Hebrews 13:8 NLT
by Mary Carver, as published in 100 Days of Strength in Any Struggle
Our newest book, 100 Days of Strength in Any Struggle, will take you on a journey of learning to see God clearer and to know Him deeper in the middle of your struggles. As you experience pain, move through daily challenges, or get bogged down by anxieties big or small, you’ll learn to find Him right in the middle of it, ready to strengthen you and give you rest.
Order your copy today; we cannot wait for you to read this book. You can also add it to your “want to read” shelf on Goodreads, and find a FREE 14-day reading plan on YouVersion with full excerpts from 100 Days!
“God’s here always, no matter what.” What a comfort this truth holds! Blessings (((0)))
AMEN!
How does anyone make it through any day, without God being there for them through the good, the bad and the ugly. Praise God, for His love and His unchangeable faithfulness and promises! Blessings to all at incourage and to all the readers who visit today!
Wish to thank Ruth, Amada, & Kathy & for their Beautiful sharing TODAY !
Yes GOD is always with us. Amen And Another thank you these 3 for their beautiful
life-giving sharing TODAY !
Thank you from Canada !
Mary,
God said we would have troubles & trials down here. But we can take heart because Jesus overcame this world. He loves us soo much to leave us in our dark valleys. We must remember God is with us always in lowly canyons & on the mountain top. Remind yourself of the greatness of God bringing you out of valleys & you will see His faithfulness always.
Blessings 🙂