A nationally known pastor talks about his experience with cancer: namely, how the human spirit struggled with facing an uncertain future.
In addition, he talks about how he saw the face of God in every person who aided his treatment process. He saw God in supportive family and friends' faces.
What is it to have faith such as that? What is it to be able to look at challenges and difficulties; not become so distraught that it becomes debilitating?
Have you ever recognized God’s presence in those who helped you through a particularly difficult period?
To be able to find God like that; to be assured, as never before, that all will be well — even if the result is death — is part of having a strong faith. God has promised through Jesus Christ to never abandon us.
His promise is, “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you.”
God means this symbolically, not literally. When difficulties and challenges come — and they will — he sees us through. We may be water-logged, and we might be singed, but we will emerge on the other side alive and intact.
Why? Because, God says, “…you are precious in my sight, and honored, and I love you…”
Look for God’s face in the people who help you in times of difficulty.
You may be pleasantly surprised that God lives up to his promise of never leaving your side.
The Rev. Mark Broadhead is Laurel Hill Presbyterian Church and First Presbyterian Church of Crestview’s pastor.
This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: FROM THE PULPIT: In difficult times, God never leaves your side