I want to start this devotion by saying that I know these are tough times. Besides an unexpected global pandemic, this year has found many of us dealing with natural disasters such as fires, floods, and hurricanes, as well as with the mental anguish of anxiety and depression. Whatever form our testing has taken, each of us has been stretched and challenged in this crazy and unprecedented season, and I believe we are at a crossroads today. Though many of us are feeling weary, overwhelmed, and ready to “throw in the towel,” we can either give up and wait for Jesus to come back or embrace our lives with greater gusto than ever before. I am convinced that the latter is the best option. Our trust is in the King of Kings and not in human leaders or governments, so we can take responsibility for what we can control, face our roadblocks, and do our very best with what’s in front of us. By overcoming obstacles, tending to our sheep, building our households, and slaying the dragons that haunt us, we can (and will) become part of the solution to the world’s problems, one person at a time. 

My friend, God chose you to be alive right now, and He wants you to openly embrace the opportunities that lie ahead of you. Though it’s easy to expect the worst, especially when you’re perpetually inundated with bad news, your Savior invites you to travel the narrow road, keep your eyes fixed on Him, and continue to build forward in full assurance of faith. You are uniquely gifted to make a difference in a way that only you can, so work hard, take charge of your future, and let the Lord craft something glorious in your life!