Even Though
“Even though the fig trees have no blossoms, and there are no grapes on the vines; even though the olive crops fail and the fields lie empty, and barren; even though the flocks die in the fields, and the cattle barns are empty; yet I will rejoice in the Lord! I will be joyful in the God of my salvation!”
I have battled through seasons in my life that were dark and barren. It seemed as if the sunshine and rains of the next season would never come. Though I sought happiness it evaded me at every turn. Where joy once stood, I found conflict and tension, fear and pain. I felt that if only the circumstances around me would change then I could rejoice. Then I would have reason to smile. Can you relate? Are you growing weary in your circumstances? Have you lost hope in a better tomorrow?
I want to remind you that even though things aren't going as planned and it feels as if the world is caving in around you, there is still reason to be joyful. That reason is God. God loves you. He has loved you from the beginning of time and is thrilled to be your Father. He freely offers you grace and forgiveness, mercy and healing. He is your salvation from sin and death. While it is so hard to see past difficult situations it is most important to do so. Though we cannot change our circumstances we can look to God as our hope and our help. He is our savior and redeemer and the only source of true joy in bad circumstances.
Begin by thanking God for all he has provided. Take a walk and soak in the beauty of his creation. Take your eyes off your situation and look to God! It won't take long for Him to fill you with peace and joy as you rest in his presence. Find joy in knowing that you are loved by the God of the universe!