Shelter from the Heat

Hello Brethren,

The heat is on, and it is not yet summer. Heat advisories in New England warn of oppressive temperatures. Like the lingering heatwave hitting us this week, we sometimes find ourselves under the intensity of life's troubles. Perhaps right now you are enduring a "fiery trial" (1 Peter 4:12).

We live in "perilous times" (2 Timothy 3:1) that we might liken to the oppressiveness of a heatwave. These times challenge our resolve to remain strong and steadfast. God knows we will face many trials, and He wants us to keep our hope strong to the end. Just as Paul encouraged the brethren, "exhorting them to continue in the faith" (Acts 14:22), we must also continue. For we know that "we must through many tribulations enter the kingdom of God" (Same verse). No matter how troubled we are, God will send refreshment "if we hold the beginning of our confidence steadfast to the end" (Hebrews 3:14).

Finding relief from the heatwave drives us to find cooler places. The intensity of our trials drives us to look for refreshment from God, and He always provides. He says, "I will satisfy the weary soul, and every languishing soul I will replenish" (Jeremiah 31:25 ESV). No matter how hot it gets, He will be there to "cover you with His feathers, and under His wings you shall take refuge" (Psalms 91:4). For those seeking His refreshment, He turns the "wilderness into pools of water, and dry land into water springs" (Psalms 107:35).

So, while we walk through the dry wilderness of this world, keep up your endurance and hold fast, no matter how hot it gets. God will be there for you like "a tabernacle for shade in the daytime from the heat" (Isaiah 4:6)! No matter how hot your trials, God will provide relief, for "the Lord is your shade at your right hand" (Psalms 121:5)!

Warm regards,

Andy Diemer

Pastor