Strength From Crisis

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The righteous person may have many troubles, but the LORD delivers him from them all. —Psalm 34:19

President John F. Kennedy once said, “The Chinese use two brush strokes to write the word crisis. One brush stroke stands for danger; the other for opportunity. In a crisis, be aware of the danger — but recognize the opportunity.”

The Chinese use brush strokes that paint words with deeper meanings. Known for its beauty, grace, and history, the technique for this type of writing dates back to the time of the Yellow Emperor, which was at least four thousand years ago. Using this technique, the word crisis combines images of danger and opportunity.

Everyone will experience a crisis at one time or another.

In a crisis you face dangers, disappointments, or losses, but when you overcome the problems, you will find the hope of new opportunities. That hope comes from the knowledge that God will help you in a time of trouble, and He promises to deliver you.

Let a crisis bring out the best in you.

It allows you to become courageous and an overcomer. You will learn from new experiences that may be painful. As you focus on solutions, which come from God, you will discover you are stronger than you thought. Believe that blessings will come from a crisis.

Dear God, thank You for new opportunities that are born in a crisis. Allow me to face them courageously because You are with me. Amen.

Excerpted with permission from 365 Devotions for Hope, copyright Zondervan.

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Your Turn

Crisis can knock us down but it doesn’t have to shut us down forever. With Jesus, we can face them with courage and hope. With Jesus, we can come back even stronger than ever! With Jesus, crisis can bring out the best! Come share your thoughts with us on our blog. We want to hear from you. ~ Devotionals Daily