Day 4: The Rescue from Brokenness

Many who love Christ are able to believe that the Lord is near to the brokenhearted in their times of distress. However, it is quite different to have a mature understanding of what it means for the Lord to save the crushed in spirit and deliver the righteous from their afflictions. While we might sometimes hope for a dramatic or miraculous rescue, often the Lord provides rescue in more subtle ways.

-One way the Lord may save the brokenhearted and crushed in spirit is by raising us up above the reality of our suffering. This can happen even if he does not remove the suffering. God can provide revival for our spirit, even if the physical, emotional and spiritual pain lingers or our temporary circumstances don’t change.

-In some cases, rescue may come in the form of the ultimate, eternal rescue all Christians receive through their faith in Jesus. Some of our brothers and sisters will be asked to pay the ultimate price, giving up their own lives here on earth because of their commitment to Christ. All Christians have the certainty of salvation. Even in the midst of the brokenness, we can see our situation with the assurance of eternity. That hope is imperishable, undefiled, unfading and kept in heaven for us.

While worldly thinking may not understand this as a rescue, it should be the ultimate source of joy and assurance for the Christian. God has promised us eternity with him. In the light of his presence forever, no hardship or affliction will compare. He is our rescue, both in the present time and in the time to come.

How can you keep this eternal perspective in the midst of a difficult season?

Thank you for completing this plan from The Voice of the Martyrs. Visit vom.org to learn more about VOM’s work serving persecuted Christians in more than 70 nations around the world.