Virtual bullhorn

The more I look around, the more deep pain and hurt I see. I mean, it's crazy how many tragedies have happened since January! January!! Really?! Huge life changing decision making transitions, earthquakes, heartbreaks, deaths (some not due to natural causes)...

Brothers and sisters, take heart!

Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. James 1:2-4

Encouragement that God gave the Israelites concerning the Promise Land:

Then Moses summoned Joshua and said to him in the presence of all Israel, "Be strong and courageous, for you must go with this people into the land that the LORD swore to their forefathers to give them, and you must divide it among them as their inheritance. The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged." Deuteronomy 31:7-8

 At the ascension of Jesus after He had defeated death:

So when they met together, they asked him, "Lord, are you at this time going to restore the kingdom to Israel?" 

He said to them: "It is not for you to know the times or dates the Father has set by his own authority. But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth."

After he said this, he was taken up before their very eyes, and a cloud hid him from their sight. Acts 1:6-9

Encouragement from Paul to the Philippians:

Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:4-7

So whatever this crazy attack-from-all-sides time is, we are being honed and purified and trained up for something that is going to be blow-your-socks-off amazing. I am confident of this!

All glory to God, the Most High!