“I sought the Lord, and He answered me; He delivered me from all my fears. Those who look to Him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame. This poor man called, and the Lord heard him; He saved him out of all his troubles. The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear Him, and He delivers them.” —Psalm 34:4-7

Cry Out To God

It’s OK to feel the pain. Jesus often felt pain, frustration, and hurt here on earth. He experienced disappointment and heartache. John 11:35 tells us that, “Jesus wept.” On the day before His crucifixion, He cried out for God to take the cup from His hands, ultimately concluding with the acknowledgment, “Yet not My will, but Yours be done.” (Luke 22:42).

He knew God could take the cup from Him—He could save His Son from all suffering if He so chose, but He didn’t. God had a greater plan and a deeper purpose, but the process required pain. Jesus didn’t deny God, nor did He hide His dread; He was honest with His Father and sincerely asked for relief, but when God didn’t grant Him that request, Jesus persevered. Jesus trusted that God was in control. He knew that He was loved by the Father no matter how His circumstances unfolded. Jesus sought help, but more than that, He sought the will of the Father.

Where is your hope placed?

– Former MLB player Lance Berkman