Sitting on the porch, I see the clouds that span across the Pacific Ocean and the silhouettes of the palm trees against the recently set sun.

The wind chime slowly sings to the rhythm of the slightly chill ocean breeze that’s following the steps of the new season that is autumn.

Though the world seems to move at a faster pace by the day, the Lord reminds me to slow down and take in the beauty of the universe He created.

I see birds flying high in the sky, going whereabouts I know not. As peace settles in, I am reminded of the verse He’s given me lately to hold onto:

You know, God spoke these words in the context of comforting His people.

In this world, you and I will face hardships. Hardships that may seem too heavy to endure. But rest assured, Paul says in 1 Corinthians 10 that “God is faithful; He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear.”

This all made sense in my head, but this past week, Jesus imprinted these words on my heart in the midst of enduring trials and battling discouragements.

I cried out to the Lord to deliver me and those around me from the attacks of the enemy and the pain we’re enduring.

Then, the Spirit told me in my prayers to remember, “You are my child.”

When I surrendered all my worries and sought God’s will, Jesus whispered, “Keep your eyes on me.”

Through a friend of mine who prays and ministers to me on the daily, God relayed, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go” (Josh. 1:9).

I must confess, my faith is not strong enough yet to proclaim what Paul wrote whilst captivated in prison:

“I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” (Phil. 4:11-13)

However, I do trust that all that we are going through is for our good, for Romans 8 states, “We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.”

Whichever valley I am walking through, God intended it for my good and His glory. And therein, I’m beginning to realize the true weight of Jesus’ seminal words:

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)

Going back to the Isaiah verse, the NIV version of the Bible states:

Yes, in learning how to wait on the Lord and to place my hope in Jesus, I am beginning to see before my eyes what my faith may one day grow to claim as my own: I can do all things in Christ who strengthens me.

Have you ever seen eagles fly? They fly with calmness and an aura of authority.

When the wind blows against them, they brace themselves and cruise on instead of flapping around in anxiety.

My Encouragement for You

Whatever we’re going through, the Lord is with us.

In fact, time and time again throughout the Bible, God promises He will never leave us nor forsake us.

He goes before us and establishes our steps.

So, I encourage you, my beloved, stand your ground, put on the armor of God (Ephesians 6), and seek Him first with all you’ve got.

I promise you, He will not let you down.

After all, God did not spare Daniel from the lion’s den; He spared him in the lion’s den. And out of the lion’s den, Daniel emerged victorious.

With love, Jae

“Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life: you should mind your own business and work with your hands, just as we told you, so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and so that you will not be dependent on anybody.” (1 Thessalonians 4:11-12)

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