For many, I know 2017 was a very difficult year. I know those who lost loved ones from multiple causes, and others suffered many trials of various types. I myself had some struggles this past year. If I could, I would not choose to relive them but I am thankful for what has came as a result of them. The reality is that God is in control of all things and He knows what is best for us. That can be hard to imagine and even hear, especially when you have a broken heart.

Jeremiah 31:3 states, "....I have loved you with an everlasting love...." No matter where you are at in your life, I just want to remind you that God loves you and He knows your pain. Jesus felt pain when His Heavenly Father turned His back on him as he was dying on the cross. He tasted death, hell, and the grave for you. All because of His everlasting love.

This is a song that I heard in church growing up, and it's been a great encouragement to me. It's called "For My Good and For His Glory." God can see the bigger picture but we can't. That's why we don't always understand why things happen the way they do. Wherever you're at, just trust that God has you there for a reason that will benefit you. Romans 8:28 states, "...All things work together for good to those who love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose." It doesn't always seem like it though. Being broken is hard, but it's how God can be glorified. Revelation 4:11 states, "Thou art worthy, O Lord to receive glory and honor and power...." Wherever you're at, I pray that you find encouragement in this song and that I have typed something that you find to be a blessing.

I must admit I don't understand,
Why God would let me face
this painful circumstance
All I have to cling to is
His word and His name;
But that's enough so I will trust
It's for my
good and for his glory,
This trial's not the end of the story,
There's a bigger picture
God alone can see,
He will take me through this sorrow
For I know he holds tomorrow,
And he assures me, it's for
my good and for His Glory
I love the Lord and he has promised me,
He'll work all things for good,
through my tears I believe, that his
ways are higher than any of my own,
and though my heart aches,
He makes no mistakes
It's for my
good and for his glory,
This trial's not the end of the story,
There's a bigger picture
God alone can see,
He will take me through this sorrow
For I know he holds tommorow,
And he assures me, it's for
my good and for His Glory
Though I would not have chosen
the suffering that has come,
I'm willing now to say,
'Lord not my will but thine be done'