These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.’
This past week my husband and I got some bad news that would involve us having to take a large amount of money out of our retirement fund to pay for it. It was devastating news and brought us both down quite low. No one likes to hear about financial struggles, but it seems to be something we are getting pretty used to, unfortunately. Many people have the same struggles, living paycheck to paycheck and never getting a break or being able to get ahead. We are definitely two of those people.
The day we found out I found myself brought to tears. Immediately I thought “I need to pray, and I need to ask for God’s help”. So, through my tears and sobs I started talking to God. Funny thing is, I never asked him for help.
Instead, I found myself going on and on about how great God is, how powerful and merciful. I found myself promising that no matter what, no matter the financial struggles we deal with, even if this is how it is for the rest of our lives, we will continue to honor Him by giving back to the church. We will continue to pay tithes, give to the church budget, and give an offering. We will not decrease anything that is going to the church. We will continue no matter what.
I told God that even if we are meant to have these financial struggles until the day we die (or Jesus returns, whichever comes first!), we would stand firm with Him knowing that all this world is just temporary. He has far greater in store once Jesus returns. This I will hold onto, and it will get me through.
Remember what John 16:33 says. He has overcome this world. Far greater is promised. God always delivers on His promises. The struggle will end.