Read Psalm 103:13-18
The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.—Psalm 34:18 (NIV)
I attended a worship service in my church with a heavy heart. My dad was dying, and nothing more could be done for him medically. Tears streamed down my face, but I could not easily leave because I was sitting in the front row where I expected a friend to join me. Beautiful flowers rested on the altar table and the sermon was inspiring. But what touched me most that day were the hymns we sang with joy and enthusiasm. Those hymns touched my heart and reminded me that God knows exactly what we need.
When the service was over, my face was tear stained. But I left the church feeling far better than when I entered. I knew that whatever lay ahead for my dad and me, my heavenly Father would give me strength. I resolved to keep my heart receptive to the experiences God offers me and the ways God wants me to use my life.
My dad is now with my mother in heaven. And God is still faithful. I give thanks that God is always available to us, in both our pain and our joy.
Prayer: Good and gracious God, help us to remember that your grace is sufficient for our every need. May our focus be on you always. We pray in the name of your Son, Jesus. Amen.
Thought for the day: When my heart is heavy, spending time with God can lighten the burden.
—Judith Wolfgang, Kentucky
