It’s hard to believe we are already in December. It’s not to say that this year has flown by. In fact, it has been just the opposite. I compare these last eleven months like trying to walk through wet cement. It has gotten harder with ever step. I cannot wait to put 2020 in the rearview mirror and move into 2021. It’s been a tough year, and as of this morning, 1.47 million people have died from COVID-19.
The good news is that our faith tells us, while God did not cause the COVID-19 virus to bring ruin to so many, God will use this present circumstance to bring good into the world. All God asks is that we keep the faith.
This understanding of holding on to our faith in all circumstances is exactly what Paul meant by saying, “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.“ (Romans 15:13)
Because of our faith in an all-loving, all-knowing, and all-powerful God, we have hope because we know every dark cloud comes with a silver lining. In fact, if it weren’t for dark clouds, there wouldn’t be silver linings.
This reference to the cloud’s silver lining has been around for a long time. It was first used by John Milton in his poem Comus: A Mask Presented at Ludlow Castle, written in 1634.
Sadly, sometimes in the midst of the dark clouds, it’s hard to see silver linings. This is when we need to remember who our God is.
Our God is the God of the silver lining. Our God is the God of hope in the midst of despair. Our God is the God of light which the darkness of this world did not overcome. Our God is here to walk with us through the darkness into the light. Most importantly, our God is good.
Choose today to trust the God of the silver lining to bring you out of these troubling times, and ultimately, bring you to your true home. If you choose to believe, as Paul says, God will fill your life with hope, joy, and peace in the midst of the storms of life. For us, the dark clouds do not win. That’s because our God always has a silver lining.
Prayer: Dear Gracious Heavenly God, there are times when it is hard for me to see past the momentary trials and afflictions of life. Help me to remember these are temporary but your love is eternal. I ask you use me to help others see your silver lining. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
Whether you see it or not, the silver lining is there. That’s why God sent Jesus.
I pray your day is filled with joy and laughter.
Tom Robbins
Daily Devotionals by Dr. Tom Robbins 