Spring Forward

2022 has been an interesting year so far.  Many challenges are being presented both here at home and around the globe.  Unfortunately, everyone is affected in one way or another.  Whether it’s through our economy, our jobs, personal life, or supporting atrocities overseas, things can begin to unravel and feel hopeless with no immediate end in sight. 

I’m sure we can all easily rattle off the personal struggles we face daily.  I know for me, as a 6th grade public school teacher, I am stretched each day on how to best reach my students, especially in today’s climate and circumstances.  There are days they drive me crazy.  My prayer life has certainly grown!  That’s just one of many examples I could share.  

Now take a moment and think about all of the challenges you face in your life.  Now imagine facing them without a risen Savior by your side. Things would feel endlessly hopeless!

Praise God that we serve a God who cares about our every needs.  Consider the words of Jesus in Luke 12:27-32:

27 “Look at the lilies and how they grow. They don’t work or make their clothing, yet Solomon in all his glory was not dressed as beautifully as they are.  28 And if God cares so wonderfully for flowers that are here today and thrown into the fire tomorrow, he will certainly care for you. Why do you have so little faith?  29 “And don’t be concerned about what to eat and what to drink. Don’t worry about such things. 30 These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers all over the world, but your Father already knows your needs.  31 Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and he will give you everything you need.  32 “So don’t be afraid, little flock. For it gives your Father great happiness to give you the Kingdom.

So whenever we feel extreme burdens and it’s just too much to carry, remember that it was never meant for us to carry in the first place.  Just lay it all at the foot of the cross and remind yourself we live with our hope in Jesus!  

Isaiah 40:31
But those who hope in the Lord
will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles;
they will run and not grow weary,
they will walk and not faint.

Psalm 119:114
You are my refuge and my shield;
I have put my hope in your word.

Psalm 25:5
Guide me in your truth and teach me,
for you are God my Savior,
and my hope is in you all day long.

Jeremiah 17:7
Blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord,
whose confidence is Him.

Romans 15:13
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, 
so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

Deuteronomy 31:6
Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, 
for the Lord your God goes with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you.

Sure, struggles are real and they can seemingly paralyze us for a time, but remember who we serve.  As winter officially comes to an end, let us no longer fall back, but rather spring forward in our hope in Christ! 

Wayne Errig