Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for you are with me; your rod and your staff they comfort me. Psalm 23:4

One of the biggest questions and areas of confusion for Christians and non-Christians alike is why we go through hard things. Why did my dad pass away suddenly and without notice in 2009? He was 63. He looked completely healthy on the outside. One day he was here, the next day he was gone because of a brain aneurysm.

I began to know the God who made Himself known, who was with me through the valley of the shadow of death. Let me tell you, I was devastated and scared. My future looked sad without my father in it. But Jesus showed up for me. I felt His presence the strongest and the thickest I had ever experienced before. I’m living proof His Word is true. All I did was lean on Him through worship music and tears. I would talk to Him and cry often, and His presence would comfort me.

I don’t know why sometimes our fervent prayers are met with death anyway. But I do know He is with us, He is for us, and He works everything out for our good (Romans 8:28, Jeremiah 29:11, Romans 8:31).

Be encouraged. If you’re going through sickness or death of a loved one, keep pressing into Jesus. He is our strength in our weaknesses (2 Corinthians 12:10), and He is an ever present help in trouble (Psalm 46:1).

Talk to Him. Cry out to Him. He hears you, and He cares more than you’ll ever understand (Romans 10:13). What we have sown in tears we will reap in joy (Psalm 126:5-6).

We never have to fear evil.

Love and hugs,

Cristy

Photo cred: https://unsplash.com/@martino_pietropoli