You’re Not Alone

Hello Church Family,

There has been something weighing on my heart lately and I want to take this opportunity to share it because I think it’s something that many of us can relate to. It’s the reality that sometimes we face struggles that no one else sees. We suffer in silence, carrying burdens we feel are too private, or painful to share. Yet, we read in the Bible that we don't need to carry it alone. Isaiah 41:10 says “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” God knows our story even when others don’t, and He walks with us through all of life's trials.

Not only that, our pain can give us a deeper compassion for others around us who may be going through their own painful circumstances.  We may not know the specifics of someone else’s struggles, but God reminds us that everyone has a story. Philippians 2:3b-4 says “Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too.” This awareness can help shape how we interact with people. If we open our hearts, God can use our pain to help us connect with others who are suffering. He can speak to us through moments of prayer and stillness, prompting us in ways we might be called to serve, encourage, or simply be present with someone.

I feel encouraged knowing that we are not alone in our struggles, and that instead of feeling isolated we can ask God to use our experiences as a means of ministering to others. Let’s be listening for His voice and willing to walk alongside others, bearing one another’s burdens as we learn to love and live like Jesus.

Brian Allen