Be of Good Cheer (August 10, 2023)

 Sometimes it’s easier to believe IN God than it is to believe Him.

A few months ago I wrote about my sweet daughter receiving a blessing while in the middle of a huge trial.

I believed in the proper authority. I believed in God’s priesthood power. I believed in God being able to answer prayers. But then I heard the blessing & I had to ask myself- DO I BELIEVE THESE WORDS? DO I BELIEVE HIM?

Could she be “healed”? Could she “recover”?

It seemed impossible. And I had tiny doubts.

I believe in God! But do I believe in His promises?

When Paul is a prisoner on a boat amidst a terrifying storm (that will eventually leave them all shipwrecked!), his words to the people on board are powerful:

“For there stood by me this night the angel of God, whose I am, & whom I serve, Saying, Fear not, Paul; thou must be brought before Cæsar: &, lo, God hath given thee all them that sail with thee. Wherefore, sirs, be of good cheer: for I believe God, that it shall be even as it was told me.” (Acts 27:23-25)

An angel stood by him that night. Comforted him. Told him they’d make it through safely. And Paul confidently told the others- BE OF GOOD CHEER.

How?!

FOR I BELIEVE GOD.

Simple as that.

God told him he’d be okay, so he knew he’d be okay.

And despite the storm, despite the ship SINKING, “they escaped all safe to land.” (44)

Just like God promised.

I believe in God. But do I BELIEVE HIM?

It’s been almost a year since a terrifying storm descended into our world.

Prayers, tears, battles. And clinging. To faith.

To God’s promises.

And I felt my Savior’s comfort. I saw miracles. Angels stood by!!

The storm has calmed, & we are safe on the shore! Trying to make our way farther up the shore to ensure safety… but yes, we made it to shore. I personally witnessed my daughter’s rescue. ❤️

“Please know this: if everything & everyone else in the world whom you trust should fail, Jesus Christ & His Church will never fail you.” (Pres. Russell M. Nelson)

We are only human- doubts happen.

But I can truly say that CHOOSING to believe, again & again, brings me the absolute GREATEST joys & hope in this world.

God is real.
God is good.
And I can get through anything with Him.