Greetings to our Strong Church Family!
 
Did you know your faith can get you through anything?  It’s true!
 
Faith helps us when supporting others who are going through very difficult times.  It gives us perspective and empathy to care for and lift them back up.  What’s true is this:  No suffering is in vain when you have faith!  Jesus said in Mark 9:23 that everything is possible for one who believes.  Hebrews 11:1(NIV) says that “Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.”
 
For many of us, the most difficult time to muster our faith is in the face of a crisis or serious challenge.  The knowledge that there’s a greater plan doesn’t necessarily ease the pain of losing someone to sickness or the discomfort that comes with conflict. 
 
It is natural to ask God, why me, why now?  Though this answer often feels unsatisfying at first, it’s not always up to us to understand God’s plan.  And, relying on our faith doesn’t mean we don’t suffer or feel pain, but it does provide comfort and strength in knowing that we are cared for in ways unseen and unknown.  We understand faith is far more than just a feeling.  It is about living it, speaking it, standing on it, knowing in our spirits that our faith can move mountains!
 
When you feel discouraged, turn to the Hebrews Hall of Fame (chapter 11) where mighty men and women of God used their faith in great, overcoming circumstances and saw great outcomes!
 
Remember, we have all been given that measure of faith.  Let’s grow and increase it by believing for impossible things to come to pass in the days where good is being called evil, and evil is being called good!  For without it (faith). . . It’s impossible to please God!
 
Seeing you all victorious!
 
Much love to each of you,
Pastors Herman and Carol