Today’s magnificent oak is a testament to the hardiness and endurance of yesterday’s seed. In times of trouble, distress, or uneasiness we learn to hold on and to seek refuge in God. Just like the oak, it is through the winds and storms that we grow stronger. These are the times when we must let our roots grow deep in God’s Word to provide both stability and spiritual nourishment. And so, the modern version of this Bible verse rings true: “Keep on being brave! It will bring you great rewards” (Hebrews 10:35 CEV). So whatever you do, don’t give up, as is graphically illustrated in the following poem, with a touch of humor to encourage us to endure.
When things go wrong, as they sometimes will,
When the road you’re trudging seems all uphill,
When the funds are low and the debts are high,
And you want to smile, but you have to sigh,
When care is pressing you down a bit,
Rest, if you must—but don’t you quit.
Life is strange with its twists and turns,
As every one of us sometimes learns,
And many a failure turns about,
When he might have won had he stuck it out.
Don’t give up, though the pace seems slow—
You might succeed with another blow.
Success is failure turned inside out—
The silver tint of the clouds of doubt,
And you never can tell how close you are,
It may be near when it seems afar.
So stick to the fight when you’re hardest hit—
It’s when things seem worst that you mustn’t quit.
—Edgar A. Guest (published in 1921)
As you have probably guessed, this edition of Activated focuses on how to find strength and comfort in times of trial, grief and adversity. In this issue, you will find articles that can offer a beacon of hope in dark times and help provide an encouraging outlook. To prepare for Easter coming up in early April, Peter Amsterdam presents a detailed account of the greatest event in history, when Christ defeated death through His resurrection.
Welcome to the March issue of Activated. May it bring you strength and peace and help you face the future with faith.