Read Romans 8:28

Little did I know when I was a young boy that memorizing scripture would end up saving my life. I mean, I memorized it to get stuff! But then the day came…I was 12 years old and in 7^th grade. I found myself opening the cabinet where mom kept all of her medicine and in that moment considered taking the pill bottles and taking my own life. But something happened in that moment… a verse came to my mind… a verse I had learned a few years before:

“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”

That day and in that moment, I remembered that God made me on purpose and for a purpose. Even though my circumstances at the time were very difficult, God would use them to help others. He would use them to shape my life. He would use them for His good! So, that day I choose to live and to live on purpose for Jesus.

I praise God for his Word and especially that verse, because I have been reminded of it many, many times throughout challenges in my life. God does not always remove us from difficult circumstances, but he promises to use those times for his good. Why? Because he created us on purpose and for a purpose!

So, what about you? What are you wrestling with right now that does not make sense? What are you or someone you care about going through that makes you wonder if life is worth living? May I give you the same encouragement that God gave me all of those years ago. My friend, God created you on purpose and for a purpose. There is hope in Jesus! There is hope for your life. Jesus, the Savior of the World, loves you and longs to use your story for His good.

Tim Boucher