Hope: A Courageous Journey of FaithSample

DEVOTION - TODAY'S DISCUSSION The coldest and darkest part of the night is right before dawn. When dawn breaks, light shines forth and the temperatures begin to climb. God gives a new beginning each and every day, a fresh start. But in the hours before the dawn, the darkest hours, tragedy, heartbreak, disappointment, and grief can pull us down into the abyss. At times it seems almost impossible to come out of it. These are the times that we must reach out to God and let him infuse His light in our lives. It's a choice for us to make. We can stay in the pain and seclusion of our situation, or we can reach out and grab onto God's promises "Cast all your anxiety on Him because he cares for you." (1 Peter 5:7 NIV) You may feel that you can't "If you can?" said Jesus. "Everything is possible for him who believes." (Mark 9:23 NIV). No matter your situation today, take refuge in God's word "As for God, his way if perfect, the word of the Lord is flawless. He is a shield for all who take refuge in him." (Psalm 18:30 NIV) He will be there for you with love and mercy that only come from Him! FROM "TAYLOR'S GIFT" THE BOOK It was close to bedtime, and that meant sleep. I welcomed sleep, but I couldn’t stand the thought of waking up the next morning and reliving the pain all over again. I stood in the shower and silently begged, Oh, God, please take this pain away. It feels like it will never stop. I miss Taylor so much, and I can’t stand the hurt anymore. I would rather be there with You and her than down here, living with all of this pain. It was my lowest moment ever. But through his texts, Father Alfonse helped me realize it was because I was focusing on myself—on my own pain. TODAY'S REFLECTIONS What do you need God to do for you today? Have you asked Him? Do you believe He can do it?  Pray today for God to be your shield and give you the desire to take refuge in Him. If you know someone in this situation, pray this prayer for them.