Something to look forward to

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I've learnt a lot about myself and the way I think in the last couple of months. Stressful, strange, uncomfortable circumstances have a tendency to do that. One of the things I've noticed about myself is how I approach days and weeks; how I go about stepping into the future.

I've started thinking through my day in the morning and finding something to look forward to in that day. Sometimes I look forward to catching up with a friend. Sometimes it's a nice meal I have planned for dinner. Sometimes it's as simple as looking forward to a bad day ending. It varies, but I've found it helps me stay positive(-ish) in the kind of times we're dealing with, because sometimes what I look forward to is on the other side of something difficult. Sometimes it's a tough conversation to be had. Sometimes it's a life-draining meeting in the diary. Sometimes it's just my turn to get up with the kids in the morning.

In Romans 5:3-5 (NIV) we read:

"Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us."

The Bible is full of promises about the "one-day." It reminds us that this world is not always fun and games. Moonshine and roses. Milk and honey, or whatever other expression of bliss you like. There will be difficult times. Some people experience a whole life of difficulty, sadly. And without ignoring the pain or challenges, the Bible reminds us that this is not the end or the defining feature of our lives. God's promises tell us that there is reason to hope, even if we can't see it right now. There is something to look forward to on the other side of a bad day, a bad month or even a bad year. And it's all because of God's love.

God's love is bigger than any challenge. Stronger than any grief. Wider than any gap of loneliness. A foundation deep enough to build a life on. Love sincere enough to forgive any sin. Beautiful enough to heal and give hope.

Today, whatever you're facing, I wish you the intimate knowledge of God's love. May you see a glimpse of what lies ahead and be filled with hope. And may you feel the closeness of the all-loving Father right in the midst of your difficulties.

Selah.

Photo by Waldemar Brandt on Unsplash

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