FINDING HOPE IN DIFFICULT SEASONS

Naim Choi, Intercultural Site Pastor

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Psalm 34:18, NIV

Where do you turn when life doesn't go as you expected?

At some point, each of us will face seasons of pain, disappointment, loss, or uncertainty. Illness can change our plans overnight. The loss of a loved one can leave an emptiness that words cannot describe. Caring for a family member who is struggling can become physically and emotionally exhausting. During these moments, we often ask questions like, "Why is this happening?" or, "Where is God in the middle of my suffering?"

As I look across our RockPointe family, I know that many among us are walking through these kinds of difficult seasons. Some are facing serious health challenges or recovering from surgery. Others are supporting loved ones through illness or navigating ongoing medical treatments. Several families are grieving the loss of someone they deeply loved, while others carry burdens that few people know about.

Although every story is different, one thing is true for all of us: we need God’s presence, His peace, and His strength.

The Bible never promises a life free from suffering. In fact, Jesus told His disciples, “… In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33, NIV). Our hope is not found in a life without difficulties but in the promise that Christ walks with us through every difficulty.

Throughout Scripture, we see this truth again and again. God was with Joseph in prison (Genesis 39:20-23, Acts 7:9-10), with David in the wilderness (1 Samuel 23:14-15), with Elijah in his discouragement (1 Kings 19:4-18), with Daniel in the lions’ den (Daniel 6:16-23), and with Paul through imprisonment, persecution, and hardship (2 Corinthians 11:23-27, 2 Timothy 3:10-11, and 2 Timothy 4:17). Their circumstances were different, but God’s faithfulness remained the same.

The same God who sustained them still sustains His people today.

Sometimes we pray for God to remove our difficulties immediately. Sometimes He does. At other times, He chooses to strengthen us as we walk through them. In every circumstance, He promises never to leave us nor forsake us (Deuteronomy 31:8, Hebrews 13:5).

That is why Psalm 34:18 brings such comfort: “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted.” Notice that God does not merely observe our pain from a distance. He draws near. He comforts. He strengthens. He reminds us that we never walk alone (Psalm 23:4 and Joshua 1:5).

As followers of Jesus, we are also called to reflect His compassion to one another. The early church was known not only for proclaiming the Gospel but also for caring for one another. They prayed together, shared their resources, encouraged one another, and carried each other’s burdens. That same calling continues today.

What would happen if every person at RockPointe intentionally looked for someone to encourage this week?

• A phone call.

• A visit.

• A meal.

• A handwritten note.

• A prayer after the service.

Sometimes the smallest act of kindness becomes the greatest reminder that God has not forgotten someone (Isaiah 49:15-16).

In a city like Calgary, many people quietly carry heavy burdens. Some are lonely. Others are grieving. Some struggle with anxiety, financial pressure, family conflict, or uncertain futures. Many smile on the outside while hurting deeply on the inside.

As the Church (RockPointe), we have the opportunity to be the hands and feet of Jesus. We are called not only to preach the hope of the Gospel, but also to demonstrate it through love, compassion, generosity, and presence (1 John 3:18, Colossians 3:12, and John 13:34-35).

Perhaps you are reading this today while carrying a heavy burden yourself. If so, please remember this: you are not alone. Your church family is praying for you, and your Heavenly Father sees every tear, hears every prayer, and knows every need. Even when you cannot see what God is doing, you can trust that He is still working.

And if you are walking through a season of joy and good health, thank God for His blessings. Then ask Him to show you someone who needs encouragement. You may become the answer to someone else’s prayer.

As we conclude, let us bring this truth into our hearts.

• Who can you encourage this week?

• Who needs to hear a word of hope?

• Who needs someone to simply sit beside them and remind them that God has not abandoned them?

My prayer for RockPointe Church is that we would continue to be a community that reflects the heart of Jesus, a church that prays faithfully, loves generously, serves compassionately, and walks alongside one another through both joyful celebrations and painful seasons.

May we be known not only for what we believe, but also for how we love. And may everyone who walks through RockPointe's doors experience the hope, comfort, and unfailing love of Jesus Christ.