Freely Speaking with Laura

Life is both spectacular and crushing. On the dark days, I clamber to praise my Jesus, who was light before the sun, moon, and stars hung in the sky.

“Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” 2 Corinthians 4:16-18 NIV. To be honest, the weight of what my family has carried for over a decade, seems to be anything but light. Nor does it feel momentary. When things first got hard, it was easy to praise God and be thankful. We were confident our rescue was just around the corner. As time dragged on with no rescue in sight, these verses took root, producing new life in me that transcends my simple existence.

Life has forced me to learn to hold tightly to what is unseen. To know that despite what I see or feel, Jesus loves me. He is at work to do what is best for me. He is faithful, gentle, and beautiful. He is powerful, gracious, and kind. He sees beyond what I see. He is a healer even when I am hurting. He is peace in the midst of chaos even when I don’t think I’ll survive. He is sure and true. He is just. He is steady and unmoving. He still brings life out of the darkness. He renews and restores. He is the creator. He is good. He is God.

I have found hope in Him because He is unchanging. Even if my troubles don’t end before I leave Earth, they end. They are not eternal, but He is. My sweet friend, on dark days, cling to Him, knowing He is also holding tightly to you. Thank Him for who He is, and find hope in Him.