Life brings with it times of trouble, hours of darkness, times when the bottom falls out, times when we are broken-hearted and looking for answers. We all need something, someone who will keep us standing strong and sustain us in these times. We need words of wisdom, guidance, and direction.

Scriptures
Lam. 3:28-29; Matt. 6:6; Lam. 3:21-23; Lam. 3:24

Verses
When life is heavy and hard to take, go off by yourself. Enter the silence. Bow in prayer. Don’t ask questions: Wait for hope to appear. (Lam 3:28-29) But this I call to mind, and therefore I have hope: The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. (Lam. 3:21-23)

Thought
Many frustrations in life come from the inability to control a situation. We focus on the problem and allow it to consume our thinking. We want to hear from God but we don’t hear him in the midst of our busyness and personal agenda. Only by focusing on God can we redirect our minds and hearts and rest in his care and let it be! Some circumstances will not change, but God will change your heart, change your focus, change your attitude, and renew hope within you if you allow yourself to enter his presence, pour out your heart, and then in silence before him–LISTEN!

Questions
When was the last time you found a place to be alone and became silent before God? Where do you need to go to have uninterrupted time with God? How does God speak to you?

Response
This week make a commitment to spend ten minutes each day alone with God. Find a place where you are not likely to be interrupted. Read a verse of scripture. Thank him for his blessings in your life. Ask him to speak to you regarding any troubles that are weighing you down. Be silent before him and listen.

Prayer
Gracious God, thank you that your mercy never ends. You are faithful, and your wisdom is life and health and hope! Let me rest in you. I give you my troubles and heartaches. Allow me to leave them with you and let it be. In Jesus Name I come before you, Amen.