Finding Hope and Strength in Times of Sorrow

Devotional

Day 1: God Is Our Refuge and Strength in Troubled Times

In the midst of overwhelming headlines and the heaviness that seems to press in from every side, we are reminded that God is our unshakeable refuge and strength. When fear and anxiety threaten to overtake us, we are invited to pause, breathe, and remember that God is present—always ready to help in times of trouble. Even when the world feels unstable and the ground beneath us seems to tremble, we do not have to be afraid, for God is with us. Take time today to slow down, sit in silence, and let this truth settle deep in your soul. [07:34]

Psalm 46:1-3 (ESV)
God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way, though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble at its swelling.

Reflection: When you feel overwhelmed by the news or your circumstances, can you intentionally pause, breathe, and invite God to be your refuge in that very moment?

Day 2: Created in the Image of God—Valuing Every Life

Every person you encounter, no matter their story or background, is created in the image of God. This truth gives unique value and dignity to every human life, and it explains the deep pain we feel when we hear of violence or loss. As image-bearers, we are called to care for all people, from the unborn to the elderly, and to see each life as precious to God. Let this truth shape how you respond to the brokenness around you, moving you to compassion, prayer, and action for those who are hurting. [19:51]

Genesis 1:27 (ESV)
So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them.

Reflection: Who in your life do you find it hardest to see as an image-bearer of God, and how might you treat them differently if you truly believed they were precious to Him?

Day 3: Jesus Came to Seek and Save the Lost

In a world marked by sin, violence, and confusion, Jesus is the answer—He came to seek and to save the lost. The brokenness we see is not just a social or political issue; it is a spiritual one, and only Jesus can heal, restore, and rescue. The good news is not just for eternity, but for today: Jesus wants to save us from the sin and pain of the present moment. When you feel angry or frustrated by the darkness in the world, let it drive you to Jesus, the only one who can truly save and transform. [24:10]

Luke 19:10 (ESV)
For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.

Reflection: What is one area of your life or your community where you need to invite Jesus to bring His saving power and hope today?

Day 4: God Is Always at Work, Even in Darkness

Even when the world feels like it is falling apart and darkness seems to be winning, God is still moving. Throughout history, the church has grown stronger and bolder in times of hardship, and God’s light shines even brighter in the darkest moments. Open your eyes to see where God is at work around you—He is not absent, but actively bringing hope, healing, and new life. Trust that as the world grows darker, Christ’s light in you and through His people will shine all the more. [29:26]

John 1:5 (ESV)
The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.

Reflection: Where do you see God’s light breaking through the darkness in your life or in the world around you, and how can you join Him in that work?

Day 5: Trusting God and Living Without Fear of Bad News

The righteous are called to live with confident trust in God, not shaken by bad news or fearful of what may come. When our hearts are anchored in God’s faithfulness, we can face uncertainty and trouble with assurance, knowing that He is in control. This trust frees us to live generously, love boldly, and stand firm even when the world is anxious. Let your heart be assured today: you do not have to fear bad news, because your trust is in the Lord. [33:27]

Psalm 112:6-8 (ESV)
For the righteous will never be moved; he will be remembered forever. He is not afraid of bad news; his heart is firm, trusting in the Lord. His heart is steady; he will not be afraid, until he looks in triumph on his adversaries.

Reflection: What is one practical way you can demonstrate trust in God today, even as you face uncertainty or hear troubling news?

Sermon Summary

This week has felt especially heavy, not just because of recent events, but because of a long season of tragedy, violence, and fear that has weighed on our hearts. From local acts of violence to national tragedies, the headlines have been relentless, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, anxious, and even numb. In moments like these, it’s tempting to distract ourselves, to keep busy, or to avoid processing the pain and confusion. Yet, Scripture invites us not only to rejoice and give thanks, but also to lament, to pause, and to bring our burdens honestly before God. Psalm 46 reminds us that God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble, and that even when the world feels like it’s falling apart, we do not need to be afraid.

There is something deeply significant about gathering together as the people of God in times of sorrow and uncertainty. Just as families instinctively come together in the face of loss, the church is designed to be a place where we find comfort, encouragement, and hope. Our presence together is a declaration that darkness and evil will not have the final word in our lives or in our world. For those who are searching for hope amid the brokenness, the church is where the best news is found—the good news of Jesus.

At the core of our faith are three simple but profound truths. First, every person is created in the image of God. This means that every life is precious, and the pain we feel at the loss or suffering of others is a reflection of God’s own heart. Second, Jesus came to save. The brokenness, violence, and sin we see are not just social or political issues—they are spiritual realities, and only Jesus can heal, restore, and rescue us from them. Third, God is always at work, even when it seems darkest. Historically, the church has grown stronger in times of trial, and God’s light shines brightest in the darkness.

We are called to respond not with fear, but with faith, courage, and love. Our trust is not in the stability of the world, but in the unshakable foundation of God. Even when bad news comes, our hearts can remain confident, trusting in the Lord, knowing that He is at work and that His purposes will prevail.

Key Takeaways

1. Lament is a Biblical Response to Suffering In seasons of tragedy and overwhelming news, it is not only appropriate but necessary to pause, grieve, and bring our honest emotions before God. Lament is not a lack of faith, but an act of trust that God hears and cares for our pain. This practice grounds us in reality and opens us to God’s comfort and presence. [07:34]
2. The Image of God Gives Every Life Inestimable Value Every person, regardless of background or circumstance, bears the image of God. This truth compels us to mourn deeply when life is lost or devalued, and to advocate for the dignity and worth of all people. Our response to violence and injustice must be rooted in this spiritual reality, not just in human empathy. [19:51]
3. Sin is the Root Problem, and Jesus is the Only Solution The brokenness we witness is ultimately a spiritual issue, not merely a political or social one. Sin distorts, divides, and destroys, but Jesus came to seek and save the lost, offering hope and transformation for individuals and societies alike. Our anger and frustration with evil should drive us to Christ, who alone can heal and restore. [24:10]
4. God is Always at Work, Even in Darkness When the world seems to be unraveling, it can feel as though God is absent. Yet, history and Scripture testify that God often moves most powerfully in times of crisis, causing His light to shine even brighter. The church is called to rise up in these moments, not shrink back, trusting that God’s purposes are advancing even when we cannot see them. [29:26]
5. Confidence in God Overcomes Fear of Bad News Psalm 112 teaches that the righteous do not fear bad news because their hearts are steadfast, trusting in the Lord. This confidence is not denial of reality, but a deep assurance that God is sovereign and faithful. In a world of uncertainty, we are invited to anchor our hearts in God’s promises and to live boldly for Him.

** [33:27]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[01:00] - Acknowledging a Heavy Season
[02:03] - Recent Tragedies and Violence
[05:27] - The Weight of Fear and Anxiety
[07:34] - Biblical Lament and Psalm 46
[11:22] - The Comfort of Gathering Together
[14:25] - Family, Grief, and the Power of Community
[15:10] - The Biblical Call to Meet Together
[16:31] - The Church as a Place of Hope
[18:05] - Jesus: The Answer to a Broken World
[19:51] - Created in the Image of God
[21:31] - Valuing All Life and God’s Restorative Power
[22:53] - The Enemy’s Tactics and Our Response
[24:10] - Sin, Salvation, and the Need for Jesus
[26:13] - Beyond Politics: A Spiritual Battle
[27:13] - Good News for Today, Not Just Eternity
[29:26] - God’s Work in Dark Times
[32:06] - Living with Holy Boldness
[33:27] - Psalm 112: Confidence in God Amid Bad News

Bible Study Guide

Bible Reading

Psalm 46:1–3 (ESV) — > God is our refuge and strength,
> a very present help in trouble.
> Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way,
> though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea,
> though its waters roar and foam,
> though the mountains tremble at its swelling.

Genesis 1:27 (ESV) — > So God created man in his own image,
> in the image of God he created him;
> male and female he created them.

Psalm 112:6–8 (ESV) — > For the righteous will never be moved;
> he will be remembered forever.
> He is not afraid of bad news;
> his heart is firm, trusting in the Lord.
> His heart is steady; he will not be afraid,
> until he looks in triumph on his adversaries.

Observation Questions

According to Psalm 46, what reasons are given for not being afraid even when the world feels like it’s falling apart?
In Genesis 1:27, what does it mean that every person is created in the image of God?
The sermon described the church as a place where people gather for comfort and hope during hard times. What examples did the pastor give from his own life about the importance of gathering together? [[14:25]]
In Psalm 112, what are some characteristics of a person who trusts in the Lord, especially when facing bad news?

Interpretation Questions

The sermon said that lament is a biblical response to suffering, not a lack of faith. Why might it be important for Christians to practice lament instead of just “staying busy” or ignoring pain? [[07:34]]
The pastor emphasized that every person is made in God’s image, which gives every life value. How does this truth shape the way Christians should respond to violence or injustice? [[19:51]]
The message stated that sin is the root problem behind the brokenness we see, and only Jesus can heal and restore. How does this perspective change the way we look at the problems in our world? [[24:10]]
Psalm 112 says the righteous do not fear bad news because their hearts are confident, trusting in the Lord. What does it look like to have a “steadfast heart” in real life, especially when facing difficult headlines or personal struggles? [[33:27]]

Application Questions

The pastor talked about the temptation to distract ourselves or avoid processing pain when the world feels heavy. What are some ways you tend to cope with bad news or overwhelming situations? Is there a healthier way you could respond, such as practicing lament or prayer? [[05:27]]
When you hear about tragedy or violence in the news, do you find it easy or hard to remember that every person involved is made in the image of God? How might this truth change the way you talk about or pray for those affected? [[19:51]]
The sermon described the church as a place of hope and comfort, especially in hard times. How has gathering with other believers helped you during a difficult season? Is there someone you know who needs that kind of community right now? [[16:31]]
The pastor said that our anger and frustration with evil should drive us to Jesus, not just to social or political solutions. What would it look like for you to bring your concerns about the world to Jesus first? [[24:10]]
Psalm 112 describes a person who is not afraid of bad news because their heart is confident in God. Is there a specific area of your life where you struggle with fear or anxiety about the future? What is one step you could take this week to trust God more in that area? [[33:27]]
The message challenged us to respond to darkness with faith, courage, and love. Can you think of a practical way to show love or courage in response to something broken in your community or relationships? [[32:46]]
The pastor shared about his family coming together in grief and the power of presence. Is there someone in your life who is hurting right now? How could you be present for them this week, even in a small way? [[14:25]]

Sermon Clips

In a world of really bad news, the church is where you find the best news, the good news... Good news in a broken world.

In times like these, I don't know if you felt this way, but with every layering tragedy my heart grows just greater and greater for the affection of the Sunday gathering. Did any of you have a thought this week as you began to hear about tragedies, man, I just can't wait to go to church on Sunday? Anybody in the house in a test? That's me. I had that fun. Why do we have that feeling in our soul? [00:11:28]

You know, this isn't just a part of our soul that was in God's design. You know, it's also in His Word. He says to not neglect the habit of meeting together, but to actually meet all the more. And to encourage one another towards loving good deeds, especially as the hand approaches. [00:14:54]

This is a, not only a reality of how God is unique and designed us that in times of trouble, the body of Christ comes together. But this is also just a biblical principle of how He is calling us to live our everyday lives. And He's saying that it's gonna get worse. And it's gonna get harder. And as it does, you're gonna gather together even more. And you're gonna encourage each other all the more. And you're gonna build one another up in love and good deeds. [00:15:17]

I believe that your presence here today sends a message to the people in the world that it lives in. Say it again. Your presence here today sends a message to the world that it is not going to have victory in my life. And it's not gonna have victory in the world. It's not gonna have victory in... [00:15:48]

Maybe if you're today, you're not a follower of Jesus yet, but you felt the pull, I need to be in church today. I don't feel like that is a random thought that you had. I believe that it is an accurate response to feeling the weight of the world around you and witnessing the brokenness of the world around you and wondering, is there even anywhere that I can find hope? [00:16:20]

From the beginning, I want to be clear. The answer to all of these sin issues and sin problems in the world around us, the answer is Jesus. Jesus. Jesus. Does this answer all of your questions, all of the mysteries, and all, does this comfort all your frustrations? No, no, no, no. I want to make this as simple as I possibly can for you. The answer to all of the sin problems in the world around us is Jesus. He's our hope. He's our peace. He is the only way. [00:18:05]

Everyone in this world that has blood flowing through their veins is created in the image of God. Genesis 1 .27. So God created man in his own image. He created him in the image of God. He created him male and female. So God created man in his own image. He created him in the image of God. He created male and female. Every human being carries the image of God. [00:19:06]

So if you are wondering, whenever you hear news of somebody who passed away, somebody who was murdered, assassinated, somebody who took their life, when you hear this news, there is a unique pain that you feel. Thank you. So let's go. to any other situation of all of life. Why is that? Because someone precious to God, created in the image of the God, is the Lord Jesus. That's a unique way. That's a unique thing. [00:19:37]

To say a statement like, we are created in the image of God, makes all of these matters spiritual matters. Deeply spiritual matters. So we have to look at them from spiritual perspectives. With spiritual perspectives, and we have to fight these battles with spiritual tools. [00:20:33]

The enemy thrives on death and destruction and stealing and stealing people's joy and killing people. This is what He does. This is who He is. Jesus, on the other hand, is life. He's the way, He's the truth, and He offers abundant life to all of the problems. in His name. [00:21:08]

Since we are created in the image of God, and since God has abundant life for us, and that we believe as followers of Jesus, that there is not a single person on this planet too far gone beyond God's reach. He's the truth. that God can't save, that God can't restore their life and take the broken pieces of their life and make a masterpiece. As followers of Christ, we have an infinite amount of belief in people. Why? Because there's nothing God can't do. And my story is a testament to that. And so is yours. [00:21:32]

With this reality, we care for all of life. In all walks of life, all over the world, from the unborn, to the child, to the student, to the college, to the young adult, to the middle -aged, to the elderly. We care about all of life, all around the world, because they are created in the image of God. [00:22:17]

The enemy leverages fear on this earth to kill the image bearers of God. And as the body of Christ and followers of Jesus, we fight to protect and to speak life and to Yeah. It's a contrast. [00:23:07]

What we're seeing in the world is not a left or right issue. It's not a right or left issue. It is an up and it is a down issue. It is a heaven and it is a hell. This one. Right? Right? Evil in this world is no respecter of people's political rights. in this world is no respecter of people's ethnicity, their background or their image. Evil seems to be as... life. But Christ came to save you. He's our rescuer. [00:25:51]

Let's not have a misunderstanding that he also died for the sins of right now, for the sins of your present moment. In a nap. analogy terms like yes he in the future throws you a life jacket when you're drowning but he's actually wanting to save you from how you're living right now he's actually wanting to save the world from the sin problem today so when we think of the good news of the gospel it's not good news one day this is good news today that in the headlines of bad news bad news bad news bad news we can come into reality that says Jesus is the answer for our problems and issues in the world today he wants to rescue us. [00:27:13]

God is always at work around us. That is a challenging thing to say in a challenging way to live when it feels like everything around you is terrible am I right everyone feels heavy the world is crashing the headlines are terrible God is always moving does it work around us does it just open up your eyes. [00:28:15]

As the world grows darker and darker, Christ's light shall be brighter. Yeah. It's represented in that, because it's the last thing in churches across our nation. I feel it. There is a any more representation in that? The gospel is being shaped. Amen. [00:29:18]

Historically, when hard times come, persecution comes, when people think we're going to silence the people that believe in Jesus, what happens to the church? They expand. They grow even bolder. What is wrong with these people? What are they? You try to silence them, they grow by the millions. They expand to the ends of the earth. They send out more missionaries, plant more churches. They're more gold to share about what they believe the most. Shouldn't they be afraid? No. No. The opposite. There's nothing that this world can offer them that Christ is not right about. When you fear a holy God, there is nothing in this world that you can... [00:30:22]

I have many from God to stand on His Word and speak the street. I'm going to call this hiding. It's called fear. It's trusting in God. It's what God calls us to do. The enemy wants to put in us a spirit. A spirit. Christ says that I've come to the kingdom of power, love, sin, strength, boldness. For I am not ashamed of the gospel. For it is the power of Christ. For all of us. So I can stand up here today. Share my heart, speak the truth. And I can tell you that there's anything. Double it down. [00:31:51]

Now is the time for the church to rise up. Now is the time to recognize that there's a hurting world around us and that the answer is Jesus. Good news in a broken world. [00:32:46]

I do not fear when bad news comes, because our hearts are assured, my trust is in God and you can stand with me, and we get out of the way but let's my mind, I try to trust in God no matter what, it's burning down. [00:35:09]

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