“Final hours of warmth before dangerous wind chills return tomorrow morning.” That weather alert flashed across my watch late yesterday, predicting strong winds that would send temperatures from the seventies into the teens overnight. I couldn’t help but think, “I’m grateful we’re heading to Texas, where the cold won’t be quite so severe.” My husband, driving us toward a New Year’s ultra marathon, wholeheartedly agreed.
Living in a time when we can anticipate drastic weather changes allows us to prepare—and even to enjoy the pleasant moments while they last. I took full advantage of those unexpected springlike days in the Midwest by opening the house, tackling the garage, spending time outdoors, and even racing alongside my husband. Knowing that a change in season is coming helps us brace for it. In many ways, life mirrors the weather: unpredictable, shifting, and often abrupt.
Jesus never hid that reality from us. He said, “These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)
Trouble is not a surprise—but when it lingers, it can feel overwhelming.
King David understood that struggle well. In Psalm 13, he repeatedly cried out, “How long, O LORD? Will You forget me forever? How long will You hide Your face from me?” (Psalm 13:1) His questions reveal a heart worn down by sorrow and inner conflict. David felt forgotten, and those feelings led him to wrestle with his thoughts until despair deepened.
Yet feelings, however intense, are not facts.
God’s promises do not fluctuate with our emotions. Scripture reminds us, “Be strong and of good courage…for the LORD your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you.” (Deuteronomy 31:6)
God’s love is unfailing, our salvation is secure, and His presence is constant—no matter how forgotten we may feel.
David eventually anchored his heart in that truth. He declared, “But I have trusted in Your mercy; my heart shall rejoice in Your salvation. I will sing to the LORD, because He has dealt bountifully with me.” (Psalm 13:5–6) When David chose to trust God’s character rather than his circumstances, worry gave way to worship. Perspective changed, and peace followed.
The same promise holds for us today: “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.” (Romans 8:28) Our trials are neither random nor permanent. God remains sovereign, present, and purposeful in every season.
So whatever weather—or hardship—you’re facing today, resist the pull to spiral. Look up instead. Remember that feelings are not facts, God is still in control, and His purposes are sure. Trouble may come, but it will last only as long as necessary to accomplish the good God intends.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that You reign from an unshakable throne. When our hearts are weighed down by fear or unanswered questions, help us to trust Your truth rather than our feelings. Teach us to know Your Word, so we are ready to guard our thoughts with Your promises. In Jesus’ precious name, amen.
Happy running.
Melissa Sharp is an ultra runner and running coach who has completed more than 100 marathons and ultra marathons. Melissa has learned how to keep running the race of life for the glory of Christ even though she endured decades of domestic abuse. Melissa is a survivor. Through her daily blog thejoyfilledrunner she inspires others to live in the strength of Christ.
