Read

2 Corinthians 2:5-6:13

2 Corinthians 4:8-9, “We are hard-pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.”

Think

In 2020, the deadly and destructive category 4 Hurricane Laura made landfall in Louisiana with up to 150 mph winds and a 15-foot high storm surge. It cost $19.1 billion in damages and cost 81 people their lives. In the hardest-hit parishes, no home or business was left untouched by the powerful gusts that snapped electric poles and uprooted massive trees. After the storm, however, people were amazed to find a few random things precisely in place.

A plastic trashcan remained unscathed outside a local business. A single crepe myrtle tree stood proudly among the wreckage. A home by the coast had significant damage, but a seashell placed on a fence post remained untouched and unharmed. These objects weren’t immune to the storm’s power, which certainly pushed at them from every angle, yet they were not destroyed.

What storm are you facing today? What forces are surging against you? You are not alone! Though you may be hard-pressed, you will not be crushed. You may be perplexed by what’s ahead, but you’re not without hope. Persecution may come, but God will not abandon you.

Like the seashell unmoved by the hurricane, have faith that in Christ you can remain steady — no matter the season — because He goes before you and will be with you through it all!

Pray

Father, I put my hope and trust in You. I acknowledge that nothing is too difficult for You, and You’re never overwhelmed. Continue to grow my faith as well as that of those close to me struggling with significant trials. Open the door for me to show them Your love today. Amen.