Hope We Can Believe In

No, this isn't another Barack Obama post, although my thoughts and prayers are with Senator Obama and his family this morning with regard to his ailing grandmother.

Today's blurb, though, is about holding out through the rough, tumultuous days. As my daddy used to tell me, "Tough times don't last long, they just seem to."

"This too shall pass." Often quoted, but do we really believe it?

Yesterday, God revealed Himself in small, minute ways to bring good vibrations and hope into my life. I can't point to one specific example, but I know He was speaking to me. With everything going on in and around me, with the world, with friends, with my family, with myself...it's easy to loose footing and despair. But remember, God is good. He is always there when the darkness is present. Though we may not see Him, just know He is here.

Materialistic things fade. However, the joy, happiness, and positive memories we make during this walk will last forever. They'll be the things we take with us when we depart this Earth. We ain't taking our cars, our iPods, our plasma screen TVs, our homes, our clothes, our money... nothing material.

That's where I'm at now. Refreshed is the notion that I'm loved; loved and cared for by many...I have friends. I have family. God always sends someone present to catch me when I fall. This is something I need to remember when difficult times hammer at my soul. My well-being isn't wrapped up in the material, but in the spiritual.

Today, my message to you is take those things that matter and carry them in your heart. Take the things that bring you joy with you as you conduct your day. Whether it be the spirit of a loved one, a friend, a pet, or the concern of a stranger, allow that comfort to expand in your sou. Therein, God will be there. He will work through you, and those around you, to encourage and enrich your day. As my pastor says, "Govern yourselves accordingly."

Remember the words "I wouldn't take nothin' for my journey now." Yes, the road may be a challenge. It's hard. We're all going through the trials and tribulations...unemployment, financial hardship, emotional crisis, declining health, ending relationships, loss of loved ones, what-have-you. Though there is loss and suffering, don't lose hope! In these difficult days, let us give thanks to God and be grateful He gives us these tough days. It's true, "That which does not kill us, only serves to make us stronger. "

Whatever comes your way today, with COURAGE, HOPE, and FAITH, trust and hold steadfast. Better days are comin'. God promised. He said it. He meant it. It will be...