“The Lord builds up Jerusalem; He gathers the exiles of Israel. He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds” (Psalm 147:2-3).
It is good that, at times, we face difficulties and adversities. They awaken us to the fact that this world is not our final home. Trials force us to look within ourselves, reveal how much we still need to grow, and remind us that our hopes must be anchored in the eternal promises of God, not in the fleeting circumstances of this life. Even when we are judged unjustly and our intentions are misunderstood, this can be used by God for our good.
These uncomfortable situations, when faced with faithfulness, keep us humble before the Lord. They prevent pride from taking over our hearts and lead us to depend even more on the splendid commandments of God. The wonderful Law that the Father gave to the prophets of the Old Testament and to Jesus teaches us to endure opposition with patience and to trust in the testimony of our conscience before God. When we obey, even in the midst of humiliation, He strengthens us and exalts us at the right time.
Do not fear being despised or misunderstood. The Father blesses and sends the obedient to the Son for forgiveness and salvation. May the extraordinary commandments of the Lord be your refuge when the world does not recognize your worth. Obedience brings us blessings, deliverance, and salvation—and shapes us into the image of Christ, who was also rejected by many. -Adapted from Thomas à Kempis. Until tomorrow, if the Lord allows us.
Pray with me: Righteous and faithful Lord, help me not to be discouraged when I am misunderstood or despised. May I see each trial as an opportunity to cling even more to You.
Strengthen my heart through Your magnificent Law. May Your commandments be my comfort and my guidance when everything around me seems unjust.
Oh, my God, I thank You because You use even contempt and pain to make me more humble and dependent on You. Your beloved Son is my eternal Prince and Savior. Your mighty Law is like balm that heals the wounded heart. Your commandments are like firm pillars that sustain me when I am shaken. I pray in the precious name of Jesus, amen.
