Dark Times

READ: PSALM 139:1-12; ROMANS 8:26-39; HEBREWS 13:5

My heart beats quickly in my chest, and I feel a bit nauseous. Everything feels out of my control again, and I don’t like it. Moments like this come and drag me to a dark place. I feel uncertain. I feel alone. But as my head starts to clear, as I slowly release the anxiety inside of me, I see that it’s all lies. I am not alone now, and in fact, I have never been. Even as I face a new challenge, I have not been abandoned.

My God sees me, and He knows the struggles I am going through. He hurts for me when I hurt. He makes a way for me when I don’t see how one could be made. My struggles aren’t mine alone to carry. God will help me through them. He knows what I am starting to panic about, and He is already there to help me. God opens doors that I don’t know exist. He keeps me moving forward when my feet feel unsteady.

No matter what I’m getting worked up about, God has my back every time. He sent Jesus to die and rise again to save me. Because I know Him, I am never alone. He always helps me through. God has never abandoned me, and I am so glad to know He will be there for me through all my future problems. Even when I start to go into a dark place, He is with me. • Bethany Acker

• What kinds of things have made you feel anxious lately? Consider taking a moment to talk to God and ask Him to remind you of His presence with you and help you see how He is already working to help you. (Romans 8:38-39)

• We all feel worried or anxious from time to time. When Jesus returns, He will put an end to everything that is worrisome! But as we wait for that glorious day, sometimes we experience thoughts and feelings that are too much for us to handle on our own, even by praying and reading the Bible. But God has so much compassion on us, and one of the ways He wants to help us is through other people. If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed by fear, stress, or worry, and you don’t know who to talk to, you can request a free conversation with Focus on the Family’s Counseling Department by calling 1-855-771-HELP (4357) weekdays from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. (Mountain Time). Please be prepared to leave your contact information for a counselor to return a call to you as soon as possible. In Canada, book your appointment by calling 1-800-661-9800 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. (Pacific Time) and ask to speak with the care associate.

We know that all things work together for the good of those who love God, who are called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28 (CSB)