Even if the fig tree does not bloom and the vines have no grapes, even if the olive tree fails to produce and the fields yield not food, even if the sheep pen is empty and the stalls have no cattle – even then, I will be happy with the Lord. I will truly find joy in God, who saves me. [Habakkuk 3:17-18 (GW)]

It isn’t difficult to have faith in times of happiness and abundance; the real challenge is to find faith and joy in the Lord in times of misfortune or need. Although our circumstances can change at a moment’s notice, we need to remember that God never changes. The same loving God sends both blessings and trials and He is directing events according to His purpose, not ours. We can be confident that He will do what is right and that He will give us the strength to meet our challenges.

Father in Heaven, keep us from letting events determine our faith. Instead of concentrating on our troubles, show us how to focus on you so that we will always have joy in the Lord.