And we boast in the hope of the glory of God. Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us. Romans 5:2-5.

The eyes of the Lord are on those who fear him, on those whose hope is in his unfailing love. Psalm 33:18.

Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you. 2 Thessalonians 3:16.

How can anyone explain the difference between living life with God and learning with Him what is good – and life lived without His help and guidance? The difference is so stark and words fail. The psalmists tried. Every psalm is their pouring out their hearts to God in need, for understanding, for help, for peace in knowing His love is their life and gives meaning and hope. In the final passages of Psalm 119…Your righteousness is everlasting and your law is true…Those who devise wicked schemes are near, but they are far from your law…Yet you are near, Lord, and all your commands are true…Your compassion, Lord, is great; preserve my life according to your laws…All your words are true; all your righteous laws are eternal…v. 142, 150, 151, 156, 160. When we look with open eyes at all in this world that causes harm and strife, how can we not turn with yearning for something better and greater than ourselves? In the final verses…May my cry come before you, Lord; give me understanding according to your word…May my supplication come before you; deliver me according to your promise…May my lips overflow with praise, for you teach me your decrees…May my tongue sing of your word, for all your commands are righteous…May your hand be ready to help me, for I have chosen your precepts…I long for your salvation, Lord, and your law gives me delight…Let me live that I may praise you, and may your laws sustain me…I have strayed like a lost sheep. Seek your servant, for I have not forgotten your commands. v. 169-176.

You know, as I was rereading this, and after I had picked up a package that I heard being delivered, I received a text saying…Delivered!…and included a photo of that package at our front doorstep. Delivered. Our package made it safely here. We will be delivered safely to our Creator God – Father, Son, Spirit. How do I know that? The words of the simple childhood song of truth…Jesus loves me…this I know…for the Bible tells me so…All of Scripture tells us the same truth. We are loved. We are the children of our Almighty God who created us and everything we see – to be loved and cared for by Him. In this world we don’t do a very good job of loving and caring for everyone. How can we? We are not God. Whether you come to Him today for help and understanding and closeness with Him – or whether you come to Him after death – we will be delivered into the Presence of our Creator God who loves us and will help us in His timing for us. Trust Him. His Love is our life! Now and for all eternity!