“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
– Isaiah 41:10
While working on the grief support group material, I continued to hear this piece of Scripture float through my head. During various seasons of life, it is common to experience doubt, fear, grief, and pain, but God assures us that we are not alone when we walk through these seasons. We are not alone when we walk through the times of joy, peace, safety, and wholeness.
Life comes at us in the way of the world. God’s steadfast, never changing, and never-ending love remains a gift freely given that we can never earn but is still active in our lives. The gift of free will allows us to choose to trust in God’s gifts rather than dwell in the abyss of a broken heart.
The pain is real and very valid, but we have the assurance that God will use all things for good (Romans 8:28). By choosing to allow God’s love to surround us during times of struggle, we open our hearts to a transformation from isolated despair to joyful appreciation for what God provides.
So often, we choose to focus on what we have lost rather than what we have. We can change our focus; change our perspective; and change our lives when we allow God to be the source of our hope, comfort, and joy.
This work is not easy, but it is worth it. Find a way to thank God for your blessings today.
God is good. All the time.
Peace,
Pastor Amber
Reflection Poem
Count Your Blessings
by Jacqueline StinsonCount your blessings
even your pain..
flowers need both sunshine and rain.Bless your lost dreams
then let them go
for each heartache helps us to grow.Bless your loved ones
especially those you hold dear
in memory.Count your blessings and see anew
God’s bounteous gifts all around you!
Missed last week’s message? → Read Finding Rest for the Weary – August 25, 2025
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