John 16:33 says, "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

When challenges come to us, fear is often nearby. We don’t see the solution. We only see the mountain that stands before us and have no idea how in the world we are going to navigate it.

A week ago, on a beautiful, sunny day, I took my dog, Penny, for a walk. Everything was going as perfectly, when something suddenly spooked her and she jumped in front of me. I fell down and heard a crack in my arm. Lying there in pain, with Penny jumping around wondering what was wrong, I called to people walking by for help, but they ignored me.. I was able to call Bill but he had difficulty finding me. This was going very badly. Eventually he located me, cleaned me up and took me to the hospital. The x-ray showed it all – a broken humerus in my left arm, and I am left handed. A special sling and alot of pain day and night, praying that I won’t need surgery. That was a rough day.

Days of trouble come to us all. Surely Jesus can bring some good out of this suffering? Well..here is what happened.

*I was able to pray for 2 different people in the ER that day

* One of my sons was home all week to help me and I needed a lot of it!

* Others came by just to visit. I have not been alone.

* My arm is healing perfectly

* I have long periods of time, especially at night, to listen to the Scriptures that wash over me and bring refreshing

* I have time to pray for many people.

* My kids keep checking in on me; this has been a huge hi-light, just to talk with them

* I feel God’s presence; His peace is strong in me.

*Knowing the peace of Christ in the midst of the storm has been wonderful.

John 14:27 says "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid".

In any bad day, God gives grace to us. Days of trouble are days where He is near and will help us. His presence is our comfort and strength. It is not true that we suffer alone. Perhaps today you are facing your own unexpected battles. I pray that the peace of Christ will be yours.

Dear Father,

Thank you for the promise of peace in the storms and the troubles that we face. May You grant to each one the measure of peace needed at this very moment. Thank you.

In Jesus’ name

Amen