The sadness. I've seen it in my congregation, in my family, and even in myself at times. As a pastor, I've learned that it's not about finding a magic solution or a quick fix. It's about persevering in applying old truths to present situations. The Bible reminds us that we are loved, that we are not alone, and that there is hope even in the midst of darkness. It's easy to get derailed by the superficial, the stale, or the pie-in-the-sky solutions that promise a quick escape from pain. But the truth is, love is the foundation of human life, and without it, life is meaningless.
As a husband and father, I've seen the impact of sadness on those around me. My wife Susan and I have been married for 19 years, and we've had our share of struggles. But we've also learned that love and perseverance can be a powerful antidote to sadness. When my son Joshua was going through a tough time, I reminded him that he's not alone, that God is always with him, and that he's loved. It's not always easy, but it's a message that can bring hope and comfort even in the darkest of times.
For those struggling with sadness, I would say that it's not about finding a new solution or a new approach. It's about holding on to the truth, even when it's hard. It's about remembering that we are loved, that we are not alone, and that there is hope even in the midst of darkness. As the Bible says, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God." (Philippians 4:6) It's not a magic formula, but it's a reminder that we are not alone, and that there is always hope.