Life is filled with unforeseen circumstances that can, at times, be traumatic. The death of a loved one, financial uncertainty, the loss of a romantic relationship, and other unexpected changes may derail us along our path. These situations can result in severe emotional distress as our broken hearts beat with anguish and the loss of hope. In one moment, the brightness of a day flowing with fun-filled memories can quickly fade as the sun is shadowed behind the clouds.

But we must remember that with the Lord, there is no pain without a purpose. Times of adversity can build a tenacious character within each of us that can renew our souls. The Lord will instill peace and comfort within. God’s encouragement in Jeremiah 29:11 is meant for each of us: “‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’” Don’t give up; listen to this whisper of faith and hope. Poet and philosopher Khalil Gibran once wrote, “Out of suffering have emerged the strongest souls; the most massive characters are seared with scars.” Through our relationship with God, we can rise up in strength that we didn’t know we had—His strength.