Your Daily Prayer 4 January 2022
A Prayer for Holding on to God in Hard Times
By Kristine Brown
“Rather, cling tightly to the Lord your God as you have done until now.” – (Joshua 23:8 NLT)
Will these hard times we’re going through ever end?
If you’ve asked yourself this question lately, you’re not alone. For many of us, life hasn’t been easy in recent weeks, months, or even years. We know God’s Word makes it clear that “in this world we will have trouble” (John 16:33). But when difficult circumstances happen one after another, we can get overwhelmed by the extended season of hard times. So what do we do when hard times hit one after the other with no end in sight?
In his final words to the leaders of Israel, Joshua gave this command to God’s chosen people. His words still speak truth to us as believers today.
“Rather, cling tightly to the Lord your God as you have done until now.” (Joshua 23:8 NLT)
The Israelites were enjoying a time of rest in the land God had given them. Joshua’s life on earth was nearing its end, so he encouraged God’s people to cling to Him in hard times.
Joshua warned the people not to be distracted by other gods. He knew the temptation they would face, whether in this season of rest or in the heat of battle. They needed to be aware of the dangers of turning away, while also reassured of God’s desire to fight for them. “Each one of you will put to flight a thousand of the enemy, for the Lord your God fights for you, just as he has promised. So be very careful to love the Lord your God.” (Joshua 23:10-11)
Dear Heavenly Father,
It seems like everyone around me is experiencing hard times. We see discouraging news in our world and feel the effects in our homes, families, and personal lives. We know we can hold on to You when circumstances overwhelm us, but we still struggle to find peace.
Lord, help us feel Your presence right now. We know You are faithful and ask You for comfort through hard times. The kind of comfort only Your Holy Spirit can give. Let Your words through Joshua seal permanently on our hearts today. We know there is hope and healing when we choose to cling tightly to You.
Forgive us for being distracted by the things of this world. We can get pulled away from Your loving arms without even realizing it. When we’re in danger of turning away, help us turn to Your Word instead. It will be our constant and steadfast lamp to guide our path through hard times. We cling to You, Lord, today and every day.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
