“And in those times there was no peace to him that went out, nor to him that came in, but great vexations were upon all the inhabitants of the countries.” II Chronicles 15:5

When reading this scripture I was struck by the close resemblance to our current time. Even though this scripture was written centuries ago, it was as if it were the latest headlines of a local newspaper. My heart pauses within me and my head bows low as I struggle with tears that form. I often think back over the past ten, fifteen, twenty years, thinking about the differences that now exist; differences we would never have dreamed possible even five years in the past.

Today the “vexation” of the spirit can become so overwhelming that despair would surely set in if it were not for the promises that we can find in God’s Holy Word. Though we live in the present, facing the struggles that are common to all, we know the rest of the story. We know that in the midst of vexation, God stands ever present caring for those that belong to Him.

“Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD, Behold, my servants shall eat, but ye shall be hungry: behold, my servants shall drink, but ye shall be thirsty: behold, my servants shall rejoice, but ye shall be ashamed: Behold, my servants shall sing for joy of heart, but ye shall cry for sorrow of heart, and shall howl for vexation of spirit.” Isaiah 65: 13-14

In the midst of vexation, I will lift my eyes toward Heaven looking to the author and finisher of my faith who has promised to deliver me.

“Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith: who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.” Hebrews 12:2