There is Hope
It’s been hard to write about ministry happenings while we’ve been going through this trial. I’ve found it hard to focus, and believe it our not, it’s emotionally draining.
The good news is that things are getting better. We are not out of the woods yet, but there is greater hope! Thank you Jesus for your faithfulness.
Encouragement from Our Friends
I met with my good friend and the lead pastor of Harbor Mid-City church, Stephen Phelan today. The time we spent together was a real encouragement to me. I’m finding as I travel this road that knowing that he and many others are concerned for us and praying for us lifts me up.
The day before I saw Stephen I spent some time with one of my close friends, Tom Steller. Thank you Lord for the special friends who help bear our burdens and walk on this journey with us.
When I was with Stephen I shared with him that we’ve seen the Lord bless us more and bring us more fruit in ministry this last year than we’ve experienced in a while. On the other hand, we’ve also had some huge trials in our family over the last several months.
The Battle & Greater Perspective
It shouldn’t be a surprise that we are in a battle. Our enemy doesn’t play fair. It is also true that we live in a broken sin filled world.
Another friend sent us a couple of inspiring verses that go a long ways in giving us a greater and more positive perspective.
Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. —Deuteronomy 31:6
I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world. —John 16:33
One of the things I like about Jesus’ words in John is that the trials aren’t a surprise to Jesus. He says we will experience tribulation. It’s just a part of life, but he doesn’t leave it there. There is hope, because Christ overcame the world.
Jesus gives us hope. When you feel pummeled by the trials that come your way remember the risen savior. Look to Jesus.
Lord, whenever I am afraid I will trust in you (Psalm 56:3).
God is building his church, and things are looking brighter.
My family and I are grateful for all the support and prayers we’ve received. We definitely do need others. Thank the Lord for the great friends he has given us.
In His Grip, Dave
DiasoLifeOnTheBorder.org
8 Comments
By Anissa "Li'l Bit" Rodriguez
Hang in there. God doesn’t give you more than you can handle. He gives you just enough to show you how strong you truly are. God bless you, and your family. Keep up the good work.
By diasolifeontheborder
Thanks I appreciate your encouragement
By Naphtali
so glad. Life throws so many hardships at us. God has gone before us in each one even providing a group of bloggers who are right there when we need them. Be Blessed!
By diasolifeontheborder
Yes – I appreciate all those who are standing with us and encouraging us along the way!
By Yevette
Remain encouraged.
By sustainabilitea
Our sermon today was about Joseph and how the lower story of his life (all the bad things that happened to him) weren’t the whole story, but only part of the upper story (the way God was working things out through his life and the lives of others.) Only later could Joseph understand that God meant and used it all for good and so He will in your lives and in ours. Much easier to say this before and after than during, but it remains the truth! 🙂
janet
By diasolifeontheborder
I love the story of Joseph. It’s one of my favorites. Thanks for the reminder!
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