Keep Swimming

25 Oct Keep Swimming

Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.  Matthew 5:10

Jesus’ words, “Blessed are those who are persecuted” remind us that we all face difficult times.  As much as we would like our faith to guarantee that life could be lived without problems, the truth is that struggles occur for all of us.

In the the movie “Finding Nemo” Dory says, “When life gets you down, you know what you gotta do? Just keep swimming.”  As simple as that seems, putting it into practice can be really difficult.  Many people have come to me as their pastor and asked what they need to do with a difficult situation.  Often my advice echoes Dory, “Just keep going”!

Each of us gets to choose where we put our focus.  If we let ourselves believe that no one understands us or has faced what we are facing, we are tempted to give up.  However, when we choose to look forward and keep our eyes on Jesus we discover that no matter what we face, God will lead us through.

I have seen parishioners get through things that are far worse than anything I have had to face.  However, what I have learned from their experience is to “Keep swimming, look to Jesus, and know that God will see us through”!

I invite you to take time to listen to Bethel Music’s video, “You Make Me Brave”.