The Bread of Tears (#99 of 365+)

“You are from God, little children, and have overcome them; because greater is He who is in you than he who is in the world” (1 John 4:4 NASB)


Joni told a story of her missionary friend Gesina, who was once thrown into a communist prison in the Balkans because she was carrying Christian literature. The cell was dark and filthy and she understandably became fearful and frustrated. She wept, her tears falling into the bread the jailer had shoved through the food door. Then she remembered the bible verse God had shown her that morning before they arrested her: “You have fed them with the bread of tears” (Psalm 80:5). The thought suddenly made her laugh. God knew where she was! He reminded her of the verse to assure her the tear-soaked bread—and the very situation she was in—“had come straight from his hand”. She could accept “the worst and darkest of circumstances” because God knew and he was with her. She could hold her head up high.

Lord, you’ve saved me and sealed me with your life-giving Spirit. Nothing in this world, no great evil, not even sin and death can ever separate me from your love. And you’ve already won the war! Help me to live with a victorious attitude, full of faith, no matter what circumstances come my way. Amen.