A beautiful hollyhock bloom like this greets me each day as I back out of the garage or walk to the mailbox. I see the promise of more blooms to come.

In the photo below you will see how the plant has had to struggle to live, to grow, to keep producing blooms.

This determined plant has woven itself back and forth through a chain-link fence. It’s been chopped with a weed-eater, buried in mud, and nibbled on by a variety of critters.

Let’s face it, this plant is not exactly in the right place to produce anything of value. Yet, it has not only survived but also brings happiness and joy with each bloom.

Do you feel that way at times; beaten down by the world and all its cares? Illnesses, death, job issues, personality conflicts, money problems all take their toll. Feel like you can never bloom or be of any good where you are planted?

Has life seemed to sap your energy? Do you struggle to make it through another day? Me, too, at times! But we can find hope in God’s Word. He alone is faithful.

#1 TRUST  in the Lord. From Jeremiah 17:7-8: Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord and has made the Lord his hope and confidence. He is like a tree planted along a riverbank…he does not fear…he is not anxious…he does not cease to bear fruit…

Let’s face it. When our world comes crashing around us, when “friends” forsake us or fail to live up to our expectations, trust can be difficult. But we have an anchor; our God has a plan for us. In every circumstance of life, we can always trust Him.

#2 BE STRONG. From Deuteronomy 31:6-8 Be strong! Be courageous! Do not be afraid … for the Lord your God will be with you. He will neither fail you nor forsake you…

It takes courage to chart a new path and leave the familiar behind. Fear can stifle the grandest intentions. It takes faith to believe God will be with us; yet, He has promised that very thing and He cannot lie.

#3 BE CONTENT. From Hebrews 13:5 Be content with such things as you have for He hath said I will never leave you or forsake you... we have a Savior who will supply all our needs. If I am struggling at the moment, I can be content. I know that whatever I am going through, He has a plan.

I know that I cannot back-track. The words I’ve spoken or the deeds I’ve done cannot be undone. The option is not there to say or do more in any circumstance. I cannot redo or replan my life; not a minute of it.

But I can trust the One who holds me in His loving hand with my present and my future.

So can you, my friend. Let me hear from you; I am praying for each of you as I send this letter out.

Bloom where you are planted; trust God and obey.

Sending hugs,