Those who worship false gods turn their backs on all God’s mercies. But I will offer sacrifices to you with songs of praise, and I will fulfill all my vows. For my salvation comes from the Lord alone.”

Jonah 2:8-9

From the belly of the fish, Jonah realigned his priorities. Running from the Lord did not work for him, and it took the depths of the sea and time spent among the seaweed for him to be reminded.

My hope falters when I turn away from God’s mercies. I am reminded this week as I write about hopelessness of a family I follow on Instagram. It seems life is handing them more than anyone can possibly endure. And their hope is failing. Perhaps you feel the same way today. There are no breaks and life is just too much.

I don’t have the answer for that, but I do know that God hears our prayers before we pray them and even when we don’t know how to pray. He doesn’t promise to remove the difficult assignments in life, but to be with you in the midst of them. His compassion and love guide you and give you hope, even in the most trying situations.

Sometimes, praise is the sacrifice needed to raise our faith to new levels and restore our hope in the one who alone is our salvation. And that is my prayer for every person who opens this post today.