Thought of the Day 1/9/21

“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” Psalm‬ ‭46:1‬ ‭(ESV‬‬)

We just came through a year of what many would call utter turmoil and chaos. From the pandemic to the election drama, there seemed to be nowhere to escape trouble in 2020. This new year so far has not looked to offer much relief, however, as many still face significant stress from loved ones dying, being sick or out of work from COVID-19, struggling with the difficulties of virtual schooling, juggling monies to keep the lights on and food on the table, etc. Amidst all of this there is still strong division in our country as well as the daily struggles of health, personal relationships, job difficulties, natural disasters, and so much more that keep the assaults coming. It is no wonder that so many today seem to be at their breaking point, and that suicide remains among the leading causes of death in the United States. Sadly, too many of us buy in to the false narrative that we have to be “strong enough” or take on our problems “alone”. There is a friend who is closer than a brother (Proverbs 18:24) who is ready and waiting for us to call upon His name. When we call on Him, “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” Present. He is always with us just waiting for us to reach out to Him. Will you call upon His name today and allow Him to be your refuge, strength, and help?

Jessica Ford

Communications Director 

ALIVE Ministries USA

Thought of the Day 1/10/2020

“My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.” Psalms‬ ‭73:26‬ ‭(ESV‬‬)

The Psalmist here in today’s verse understands the brevity and fragility of his own life. He understands that circumstances will arise where, in sickness or trials or even death, he will not be mentally, emotionally, or physically strong enough to overcome them. However, he also holds an important treasure in knowing that God will always be the strength for him when he cannot overcome what life puts in front of him. When contemplating trials of this life, and even ultimately death itself, are you able to say with such confidence as the Psalmist that God will be “the strength of [your] heart and [your] portion forever”?

Jessica Ford
Communications Director
Alive Ministries USA