March 8
Hope
Beyond the Struggle
"Be strong, all you who put your hope in the Lord. Never give up."
Psalm 31:24, NIrV
Gary had always prided himself on his strength, both physically and mentally. As a soldier serving overseas, he’d faced challenges that tested every ounce of his resolve. But nothing prepared him for the day a roadside explosion changed his life forever. When the dust cleared, Gary was alive—but his right leg was gone.
Returning home was bittersweet. While his family and friends were overjoyed to have him back, Gary struggled with his new reality. The once-active man now found himself dependent on others for simple tasks. He felt like a shadow of his former self, consumed by anger and despair. At night, he would stare at the ceiling, questioning why God had allowed this to happen to him.
One afternoon, Gary decided to join a local support group for veterans. Reluctant and skeptical, he entered the room where men and women shared their stories. One man, an amputee like himself, spoke about finding strength through faith. “I didn’t just lose a leg,” the man shared. “I gained a deeper reliance on God. Every day, I remind myself that His strength is made perfect in my weakness.”
Gary couldn’t stop thinking about those words. That night, for the first time in months, he opened the Bible his mom had given him years ago. His eyes landed on Psalm 31:24: “Be strong, all you who put your hope in the Lord. Never give up.” The verse struck a chord deep within him. He realized that he had been relying solely on his own strength, and now it was time to lean on God’s.
The next morning, Gary made a decision. He started small—praying each day, asking God for courage and hope. Over time, he began volunteering at a rehabilitation center, helping others facing similar struggles. Slowly but surely, he felt his inner strength return, fueled by a faith he hadn’t embraced in years.
Gary’s journey wasn’t easy, but he discovered that hope in the Lord could transform even the darkest days into opportunities for growth and purpose.
Prayer:
Thank You for reminding us that our strength comes from You.
Like Gary, we often feel overwhelmed by the challenges in our lives, but You promise to be our refuge and source of hope.
Teach us to lean on You, especially when we feel weak or lost.
Help us to encourage others with the strength You give us, and never let us give up on Your plan for our lives.
In Jesus' name, Amen.
