Where do you go when trouble hits? You know that it does for all of us at one time or another. It could be a sudden death, an unexpected divorce, a child’s declaration of atheism…there are a ton of things that can rock our worlds. I often wonder where I would go for strength to continue if I didn’t believe.
Some of us have gone to drugs or alcohol to deaden the pain, as I did at one time. Problem was drugs and alcohol wear off. I had to “come down” at some point and when I did, the problem was still there, but because it wasn’t taken care of, it was worse. Others go to tv, computers, food, gaming, etc. They are all ways to get away for a moment, but they don’t handle the problem or help us to cope with what has come our way.
Trouble hit our home this past weekend. Our world was rocked. But Jesus... As I write this Chaplain’s report at 5:05am (after another sleepless night) Today, I am assured that God has it all under control. This doesn’t mean sleep comes easier nor does it mean I “feel” better, but it does mean I know this issue didn’t take Jesus by surprise. I know He is trustworthy and all sufficient. I know He is God Almighty and He can do anything. He is my rock. The One I can hold on to when all of life seems topsy turvy and out of control. He is stability. My Bible holds the words and wisdom that serve to strengthen me, comfort me and hold me still while the battle rages on.
As the founders of Gateway To Glory and chaplains of the Macomb County Jail, we hear the stories from men and women who have had the bottom of their worlds drop out. They have tried using “things” (drugs, alcohol, gambling, sex, etc) to help them cope with what the world throws at them, to no avail. Quite often they have gotten hooked on substances, causing them to lose everything. Others have ended up incarcerated. They are crying out for something to hold them together.
Faith and reliance on Jesus is the answer! As believers, we get to share our hope with men and women who have come up empty after trying to cope using the world’s methods. When they hear that there is a God who sees, cares and knows their hurts, one who is able to give hope and strength to continue, a spark ignites in their heart. We see countenances light up with hope for a new life and, as they begin to grow through mentoring, local church attendance, making new friends and linking arms in ministry, we hear praise reports!
If you know Jesus, the storm calmer, you have something to share with the rest of the world. Share Him. Help others come to know the One who holds you through the times of crisis. Now, I’m going back to bed, and I will have peaceful sleep, because I know the Rest Giver. "Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls." ~Matthew 11:28 & 29
In the shelter of His arms,
Chaplain Robin Malek