I know that these words alone may seem powerless to provide the hope and power to change the way you feel and even more powerless to change your circumstances but they are none-the-less TRUTH and Jesus promised that the truth would set your free.
I want to share with you some things today that you may need to read over and over before they sink in and take root but you have to start somewhere. As far as I know no one ever got from here to there without moving ahead so please hold on and take a few steps with me.
1) God made you with purpose
"Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart." Jeremiah 1:5
God spoke these words to Jeremiah but understand that you too were created by God and known by him before one cell ever came to be.
2) God loves you
"But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." Romans 5:8
You see, God's love came to you before you cleaned up your act. Not only did he love you when you were making mistakes he gave up his son for you. If you have children you can ponder that for a moment to see the magnitude of the gift.
3) You are not alone in the midst of your trials and temptations nor are they without a greater purpose
"So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." Isaiah 41:10
"Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything." James 1:1-4
You've never learned, grown, or been strengthened without struggle. Courage doesn't come without danger, compassion doesn't come without people in need, and faith doesn't come without a circumstance for which we see no resolution.
4) If you turn to God he will give you hope and that hope will give you strength!
"Find rest, O my soul, in God alone; my hope comes from him." Psalm 62:5
"But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." Isaiah 40:31
Not only does God provide for you the hope but he also will turn that hope into real power!
5) This life and it's struggles are not the final word for those who trust in Christ.
"He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death, or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away." Revelation 21:4
I have known hopelessness and despair and have seen the power of Christ to restore hope and life. I know that in the pit of loneliness, addiction, fear, and depression these words may not immediately bring you healing but you will be lifted up if you put your hope in God alone. You may not feel it today or tomorrow but do not give up! Our emotions are fickle. They come and go. Read and pray over these five truths today, maybe ten times today! If you need help please talk to someone. If you have no one to talk to feel free to drop us a note. If your are contemplating ending your life STOP! There are people who are there to help. Click the link below and contact them, your parents, your pastor, or a friend.
http://www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org/
God loves you and so do we.
Peace,
David and the I-61 Project
