Though we live in a fallen world where we experience pain and disappointment, the Lord can move us from despair to rejoicing. The Lord gives us hope when we feel hopeless. He helps us to forgive when we think we can't. He teaches us that our identity is in Him and not in what we do. He gives us courage to face the unknown future. When we wear rags of "ashes", He gently gives us a coat of praise. When we face loss, we should not become bitter or hardened because we know He is willing and able to turn over our heartaches to dancing. When we think about God's faithfulness over the years we know, He gives us sufficient grace in this life and a promise of full joy in heaven. Remember God turned Jesus's pain on the cross into our best gift. Jesus came to preach the Good News, to heal, to deliver, to restore, and to bless us so we can live holy lives and display His splendor. God can bring times of growth to our times of heartache! Run to the arms of your Savior, He is waiting!

~ Isaiah 61:1,3