"Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me"- Psalm 23:4 (NIV).
Being a Christian does not mean we are exempted from heartbreak, health problems, relational difficulties, job losses, or financial difficulties. It also does not mean that God has left us or forsaken us. A good friend pointed out that Noah was one person, the only God-fearing person, in the middle of an evil and fallen world. Yet, God was still watching over Noah and planned his survival. Meanwhile, though Noah's life was going to be spared, was he living a wonderful life? No, he wasn't. People mocked and insulted him while he built the ark. I'm sure they tried to entice him into giving up his crazy notion of building a huge boat on dry land. Some may have hated him, because he made them feel "dirty" because of their sins. Jesus told His followers, "You will be hated by everyone because of Me, but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved" (Matthew 10:22). Noah kept on being obedient and ended up being saved, he and his family, from the flood. God was with Noah. He is with us, too. God never promised us an earthly kingdom; He promised a Heavenly reward to those who endured. Jesus' words could have been a gut-punch to many; I mean, who wants to be hated? But, He also said, "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" (John 16:33). Noah "took heart." Lord, strengthen us to "take heart" when life takes us into the darkest valley.
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