Finding Strength in Difficult Times

Dear beloved, as we enter into another lockdown we are again reminded of the frailty and uncertainty of life. With this uncertainty come many challenges: emotionally, mentally and spiritually. May I encourage you with two things: one is to remember your God and the other is to love your neighbour.

Firstly, remember, life is full of suffering and the Bible does not try to sugar-coat it. Jesus even promises it. He does not promise a fanciful utopic life, but rather unexpectedly says, “In the world you will have tribulation” (John 16:33). Just like the saints before us, every one of us wades through the waters of suffering in some form or another. But for the Christian every form of suffering has its purpose to conform us to the image of the one who suffered on our behalf. And because of this He is now able to walk beside us in our sufferings while giving us the grace we need. May our Lord grant us the faith to know that our God is bigger and stronger and more secure than anything else in life and will continue to hold us fast.Secondly, having taken hold of our anchor in Christ, would you serve the church and be served during this sixth lockdown? On behalf of the elders, here are three things we would ask you to do:

1. Would you please pray for your fellow brothers and sisters at HBC? If you are struggling, be sure you are not alone. I think it is fair to say that all of us are finding life at the moment challenging in one way or another.
2. Would you please reach out to one or two of your church family by giving them a call? Fellowship is an essential part of the Christian life and when the church is apart the church suffers. The church directory on Elvanto was created for times like these. Would you please give someone a call, enquire how they are and pray for them? If you do not know how to get onto Elvanto please email Cynthia and she will be only too pleased to help you (cmitchell@hillsbiblechurch.org).
3. Would you please contact me or one of the elders if you are finding things difficult and would like to talk with someone and be prayed for. We will continue to endeavour to be in touch with you but please don’t wait if you are in need.

May you take much comfort and encouragement from this beautiful promise given to all the Lord’s redeemed people:

Isaiah 43:1-3, But now thus says the Lord, he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel: “Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you. For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.”