Really struggling today. So much happening in our world that makes me want to pull the covers right over my head and stay in my safe cocoon. But as I know and you know, escaping just doesn’t work. I eventually have to face the cries of my body and demands on my time and put my feet on the ground, get up and encounter the day.

I have been waking up the last few mornings with a song on my heart and mind called Way Maker. A Nigerian born woman who goes by Sinach wrote it. She performs it, as well as, other Christian artists such as Leeland, Bethel, Kim Walker Smith on YouTube and other media. If you haven’t heard it, please pause right now and listen to it. Inhale the hope and life that pours out of the lyrics and melody. This amazing song has helped me with pain and sorrow and given me much hope.

My struggles may seem fairly insignificant to some compared to what is happening around the world. But they are serious to me, as I cry out to my way maker, promise keeper, and light in the darkness, as Way Maker expresses. And I am comforted knowing that He is with me even when I don’t always see Him working.

My husband and I are leaders in a Chinese congregation. Many of the members are walking through a hard and dark time as they pray and fast for their loved ones in China. Standing shoulder to shoulder with them in this has enhanced my understanding of having to put complete trust in Jesus, our miracle worker. Their courage and faith gives me strength as I face the trials in my life and rest in Jesus.

In the Passion version of the Bible, Jesus invites us to find solace, comfort, and answers in Him for the stress, trials and pain in our lives. “Are you weary, carrying a heavy burden? Then come to me. I will refresh your life, for I am your oasis. Simply join your life with mine. Learn my ways and you’ll discover that I’m gentle, humble, easy to please. You will find refreshment and rest in me. For all that I require of you will be pleasant and easy to bear.” Matthew 12:28-30.

In 1 Corinthians 10:13 it says, “No temptation (trial) has overtaken you but such as is common to man; and God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, that you may be able to endure it.” I believe the way of escape is knowing that Jesus has the answers and we must trust Him, no matter what the circumstances look like.

I experience refreshment when I worship the Way Maker. He comforts me as I grab hold of His answers and rest as I let go of my fears. I have learned to embrace His ways (that are not always my ways) in every trial. It gets me through with a song in my heart and empowerment in my step. Now that is good news!

Are you facing stress, trials, and pain in your life? Are your ways of escaping working? Is it time to rest and put your trust in Jesus?