We start this episode with a few reflections on the value of walking deeply with a community of people for a long time. It helps us connect with God, grow in Him, be encouraged, and have lots of fun.

Then we go real deep real fast. We both share about very sad things that happened to each of us recently. We wrestle with the question, “What do we do with disappointment and unanswered prayers?” It wouldn’t hurt so much if we didn’t have so much faith and expectation… “So many questions come up when we believe in a God that raises the dead but then He lets things die.”

When we can’t do anything and God has said “No”, what can we do? What follows is our unscripted response.

1. We can cry.

“Jesus, could you please just sit and cry with me.” - Make It Well, by MercyMe
2. We can trust.

“Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life,” John 6:68

If we give up on God, we still have our pain and suffering, but we lose all our hope.

3. We can hope.

“I believe that I shall look upon the goodness of the Lord

in the land of the living!” - Psalm 27:13

“Oh, how abundant is your goodness, which you have stored up for those who fear you and worked for those who take refuge in you, in the sight of the children of mankind!” - Psalm 31:19
4. We can receive God’s comfort.

The incarnation shows us that Jesus doesn’t watch our pain from a distance. He comes into our suffering. Today, in a way that surpasses our understanding, He comforts our hearts.

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted

and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” -Psalm 34:18

“The best thing He can think of to give me is Himself.”

“I didn’t get what I want, but I have what I need.”

May our Immanuel comfort your hearts as you listen!