Hope in Adversity: The Christmas Promise
Friday, December 13
Hope in Adversity: The Christmas Promise
How long, Lord? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me? Psalm 13:1
The cry of David in Psalm 13 reflects a deeply human experience—moments when it feels like even God has turned away. At Christmas, we often celebrate joy, peace, and hope, but for many, this season can also bring feelings of loneliness, discouragement, and doubt. Yet, the message of Christmas is precisely for those moments of adversity.
David’s psalm ends not in despair but in trust: “But I trust in Your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in Your salvation” (Psalm 13:5). This shift from lament to hope is a reminder that God is always present, even when we feel abandoned. The birth of Jesus is the ultimate proof of God’s love and His presence with us in every trial.
This Christmas, if you find yourself asking, “How long, Lord?” know that the answer lies in the manger. Jesus came to bring hope to the hopeless and light to those in darkness. Just as David chose to trust in God’s unfailing love, you can choose to trust that God is with you, working all things for your good.
Are there areas of your life where you feel forgotten or alone this Christmas? How can the birth of Jesus renew your hope and remind you of God’s presence?
Prayer for today: Father, thank You for sending Jesus, the Light of the world, to bring hope in the midst of our adversity. When I feel forgotten or overwhelmed, remind me of Your unfailing love. Help me to hold onto the promises of Your Word and trust in Your plan, even when I cannot see the way forward. This Christmas, let my heart rejoice in Your salvation and Your presence with me. Amen.