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For the times we feel challenged beyond what we can bear, take heart. Consider Psalm 42:11 which states, "Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God." I suggest to you, the writer of this psalm knows what it is to be overwhelmed and on the brink of defeat. But notice his response to his predictament. He looks fear in the eye and stares it down. He refuses to surrender to the opposing forces.

This is a powerful reminder to each of us who have weathered our share of storms. Even when the storms won't cease, never underestimate the power of a made-up mind. When the convinced mind of a person confronts his troubled heart, you experience the conviction of Psalm 42:11. It is as if the made-up mind grabs the trembling heart by the collar, gives it a firm shake, and says snap out of it. The mind reasons with the heart, reminds the heart, strengthens the heart.

Let us remember, God is the Anchor in a storm. God is the Provider in our poverty. God is the Victor in our battles. Be assured. God is the source of our hope, the object of our praise, the origin of our healing. God is our God. Amen.