A few months after my graduation from high school, I found myself running to find a safe place to hide.  My native country had broken into a war (genocide) that killed approximately 800,000 people — including my family members.  This unexpected, barbaric event left me parentless, homeless, and penniless.  I began to wonder where my God had been when these horrible things were happening.  I found myself in a state of confusion, not knowing where and how to move forward in life.

I remember one day sitting under a tree having a conversation with God.  “God, please hear me.  How will I move forward?  How can I survive as an orphan, without support and guidance?  Who will comfort me?  Who will counsel me?  Who will provide for me?”  I felt paralysed with fear and grief.

Sometimes we face challenges beyond our control.  Psalm 18:6 reminds us to call on the Lord for help in times of distress, and God will hear our prayers.  Knowing that God hears our cries and is with us every step we take, gave me strength in the darkest hours of my life.  We can trust that regardless of what life throws at us, God hears our prayers and will guide our steps.

Prayer: Dear God, help us to lean on you and to trust in times of fear and grief.  In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.