There’s some good ole’ country wisdom that says, “Every trail has some puddles” (Catron Courier). When you examine your life, do you feel like you’ve had more than your share of puddles? Does your life feel like one, big puddle? Or are you one of the fortunate few who have only had a fairly “puddle-less” existence?

Here’s the unfortunate truth about being human: Bad things inevitably happen. But let me ask you: do you find yourself getting bogged down in the stressful, sad, or negative elements in life, or are you able to focus on the positive? Do you view the puddles as an inconvenience, something to be lamented? Or do you put on your rain boots and jump in?

On days when you feel overwhelmed, discouraged, or just plain “blah,” remember you are not alone. The Bible reminds us in Deuteronomy 31:8, “It is the LORD who goes before you. He will be with you; He will not leave you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.” Joshua 1:6 also reminds us, “Be strong and courageous!” No matter what negative things we face in life, we can rely on our Heavenly Father to be there in the middle of the “muck” with us.

We also have a hope that nonbelievers don’t have: the promise of heaven! Revelation 21:4 says, “He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.” Are you ready for that day? Are you looking forward to it with eager anticipation? I know I sure am!

In the meantime, may we pray along with Melody Beattie, “God, let me let go of my expectations and delight in what is.” I hope and pray that today, tomorrow, and in the days to follow, we can rely on God, knowing that He is with us and that He is eagerly awaiting our arrival to spend eternity in Heaven with Him.