December 27, 2017

          “A gloomy trail is part of the spiritual journey.  Clouds cover the sun and each step becomes a drudgery.  These are the teaching hours – the moments you learn how to lean upon Me for everything in your existence.  You must keep walking steadily through the wind and rain, setting your face like a flint through each hardship.  I walk before you, though you see Me not.  The fog hides Me.  I want you to learn to walk courageously and faithfully through the darkness.  This increases your faith and trust.  How can you grow in blind faith in the sunny days of prosperity?  God shines on you and all is well.  But in the dark days when God hides Himself, do you fall apart in despair, distrusting God’s plans or do you confidently trust that He is leading you through the darkness?

          Life is not an easy journey.  There are many mountains to climb and hills to scale.  Obstacles on the path confuse and perplex you.  Can you feel My presence in the darkness?  I am there, awaiting your obedient response of trust.

          I walked the lonely road of the Cross on earth.  I was troubled and perplexed by man’s obstinacy; I felt burdened by other’s problems and defeats; I felt helpless and the despair of darkness, yet I remained firm and steadfast, giving you an example of how to endure these trials in a way that pleases God.

          I did not murmur or complain.  I did not commiserate with others.  I held My peace and talked everything over with My Father.  I trusted Him implicitly.  I trudged wearily forward on the road, singing songs of worship in My heart.  I endured trusting in My Father’s mercy.  You do the same.  Rely on Me every moment and you will receive the strength you need to endure.  Your obedient trust is making you mature spiritually.

          Keep going forward.  I am with you.”

Jesus,

Encourager of the Saints