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


saken; struck down, but not destroyed” (2 Corinthians 4:7-9). Each of us has been engulfed by dark circumstances that swirl about us at different times during our lives. Whether they are God-allowed or self-induced we will all face   


B


Some of the godliest people in the Bible faced serious dark times from Joseph to David to Jonah to Paul. Yea, even our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Jonah is one of the best examples of a self–induced time of darkness while Joseph was thrust into the swirl by others. David had times of both. Yet, it was in their darkest hours God was working mightily on their behalf, as well as teaching and growing them. David’s Psalms are full of him pouring his heart out to God during the dark days. David


- es. Psalm 57 is one of those. While David does not deny his circumstances, he chooses to praise God in the dark, reminding himself of God’s true nature. We need not focus on our  (James 4:8), and we gain strength and perspective. Take some time to read through Psalm 57 as well as some of David’s other Psalms. Read Joseph’s life. Remind yourself of who God really is. Remind   shift. Your Creator can life your head and bring a steadiness back to you.


            wisdom and knowledge; The fear of the Lord is his treasure.” (Isaiah 33:6)


“My heart is steadfast, O God, my heart is steadfast! I will sing and make melody!” (Psalm 57:7)


“Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless his holy name! Bless the Lord, O my soul, and for- 


Janet Kelly is a member of Centennial ARP Church in Co- lumbia, SC. Janet originally wrote this when her husband, Retired Army Chaplain Michael Kelly, was deployed.


ut we have this treasure in earthen vessels, so that the surpassing greatness  way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not despairing; persecuted, but not for-


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The Associate Reformed Presbyterian


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