“Why are you cast down, O my soul? And why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God; For I shall yet praise Him,
 the help of my countenance and my God.”
Psalm 42:11 (NKJV)

We generally think of November as a month to reflect on all we have to be thankful for. When I compare my trials to those around me, I cannot help but recognize how blessed I truly am.

November was a hard month. I watched three families say goodbye to a loved one. Men who were husbands, fathers, brothers and uncles. It breaks my heart to see the sting of death on those left behind. The holidays will be hard for those families this year.

And yet, there is coming a time when there will be no more death and a great reunion will take place with those who have gone before us. What a day that will be for those who have put their hope in God’s redemption.

Prayer: Father, thank You for the gift of eternal life and the knowledge that death is a temporary separation from those we love. Speak hope into the hearts of the hurting. Lift their countenance and give them joy in the midst of their sorrow.