by Kala Loptien

Coping Words

You can listen to today’s devotion by clicking this Sound Cloud link.

Have you noticed that hardships and heartache seem to come in waves? Not a predictable pattern by any means; but what we’ve come to understand as inevitable. Most of us have already experienced profound loss and struggle. Some of us might be in the middle of a valley now or have dear friends navigating trials.

If left to our own devices, we would wallow in our limited understanding and cope on our terms. But God designed us to desire more than what this world offers. When the going gets tough…the tough get God.

The incredible truth about our God is that He knew we would experience brokenness (John 16:33); but He also knew He would provide a rescue plan (John 3:16). In the meantime, as we follow the path marked out for us this side of heaven, He offers guidance and comfort through the Spirit and Word. I’ve been thinking about the uplifting and relatable content provided in the Psalms. I pray that the Lord would speak to you today through the words of these verses. Write them on your heart and never let go.

When we need a reminder of how precious each life is, and that we are fully known by our Creator:

I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Psalm 139:14-16 English Standard Version

When fear grips:

The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? Psalm 27:1 ESV

For comfort and confirmation:

He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds. Psalm 147:3 ESV

The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit. Psalm 34:18 ESV

A Psalm of affirmation:

For the Lord is good; his steadfast love endures forever, and his faithfulness to all generations. Psalm 100:5 ESV

Copyright Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado