Deep Waters

He is the source of every mercy and the God who comforts us.

-2 Corinthians 1:3-

Happiness is a shallow brook. Sadness seems to run deeper. Grief at times can be a current so dark you cannot see bottom. But peace is a mighty river, joy a fathomless ocean.

God's Word says,"The peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your heart" (Philippians 4:7) and "The joy of the Lord is your strength" (Nehemiah 8:10). These promises are true in moments of happiness, periods of saddness, or seasons of grief. These three depend on circumstances. Not so joy and peace.

Happiness often dries up, and sadness eventually wanders away. Grief may take months, even years, to run its course. But for the faithful, for those who trust in God and hold fast to Him, peace and joy remain. They are constant, steadfast , reliable - available every day.

How do you remember the beauty of the ocean when you are drowning in a muddy stream? How do you recall the soothing river when all you can hear is the raging flood? Can you experience peace when a family member is suffering? Can you reall find joy when a loved one is dying?

Look for God's grace in the darkest moments of life. Listen for His whisper in the quiet, lonely times. Wait for His loving touch when the pain is so much for words. And keep trusting Him through it all. The Lord is faithful; He will deliver you form the deep waters. Nothing to separate you form His love, and no circumstance can alter His peace and joy.

For every stream of grief that flows into our lives,

there is a deeper river of peace taht comes from the Holy Spirit