Finding Hope in the Face of Overwhelming Circumstances by Paula Peckham

God’s Promise of Everlasting Presence

Life is filled with uncertainties, and there are moments when we feel burdened by the weight of our circumstances, overwhelmed by the challenges we face. In such times, it is not uncommon for people to question if God has abandoned them. However, as followers of Christ, we can find solace in the assurance that God’s presence and faithfulness are unwavering, even in our darkest times. It is precisely in these moments we need to cling to our faith, remembering the promise of God’s abiding presence.

This past week, the disappearance of the submersible Titan held the world spellbound. I confess, I was in that crowd. I refreshed the news app on my phone compulsively, so worried about the fate of the five people on board. Intellectually, I realized they were most likely dead. But in my heart, I hoped for a miracle. Why did that particular event capture the nation’s attention when other tragedies do not?

For me, the terror of being trapped so far under water, and in such a small space, consumed my imagination. I’m claustrophobic, and drowning seems like a horrible way to die. Picturing that unknown, and realizing those five men, despite their wealth and power, could do nothing to change their circumstances … I think that’s what got me. We don’t like the sensation of losing control.

But, even in that dark, debilitating moment, God assures us he is there. Hebrews 13:5 states, “… and be content with what you have, for he has said, ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you.'” This powerful verse provides a clear and reassuring promise from God Himself. It reminds us we are not alone, regardless of the challenges we face. God’s commitment to His people is unwavering, and His love and faithfulness endure forever. I hope, if I ever experience something like those people did, that I will recall this verse and allow them to give me peace.

In Protected, book one in my San Antonio series, Abby, the female main character, faces a moment such as this. Her parents have died, she feels helpless and abandoned by God, and she struggles with feelings of anger toward him. But his steadfast patience never tires. God directs people to her life who show her by their actions how trustworthy he is. She learns from them how to turn to him again. You can find Protected in audiobook, paperback, or eBook.

In times of overwhelming circumstances, it is natural to question whether God has abandoned us. However, as followers of Christ, we can find strength and hope in the assurance of God’s everlasting presence. Hebrews 13:5 assures us that God will never leave nor forsake us. As we hold on to this promise and seek His presence, we can find solace, comfort, and renewed faith to face the challenges before us.

Have you experienced God’s presence in your valley? If so, please share with us how he brought you through it.

 

 

A fifth-generation Texan, Paula Peckham spent two decades teaching math. She divides her time between her home in Texas and Rio Bravo, Mexico. She and her husband, John, have four children and nine grandchildren.

Her debut novel, Protected, Book 1 in a series, was published in April 2022. It finaled in ACFW’s Genesis contest and won the gold medal in the 2022 Global Book Awards. Book 2, A Father’s Gift, finished third in the 2023 Selah contest. Book 3, Accepted, is out in October 2023. She published two Christmas anthologies in 2021.

Paula is on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and at www.paulapeckham.com.