Broken.

Through different circumstances this summer, God has shown me just how broken this place we live in is.

The girl who tries to fill the emptiness with clubs and parties and beer.

The girl who keeps giving in and settling until she has nothing left.

The girl who has been hurt by almost every male she has ever trusted or loved.

The girl who is so jealous of someone else that she loses herself.

And so many more...

I have heard story after story of death, betrayal, jealousy, abuse and more.

And I have had to wrestle with the question that a twelve year old asked me::

"If God is so loving, why would He let this happen to me?"

I know our world is broken because of sin.

I know that God cries with us when we hurt.

I know that someday, healing will come.

But it is so difficult to see another person's pain, and not wonder why.

As I prayed and searched for answers, God directed me to John 16.

And, lets just say I don't believe in coincidences...

You can read it for yourself, but here's the conclusion:

John 16:33

"I've told you all of this so that trusting me, you will be unshakable and assured, deeply at peace. In this godless world you will continue to experience difficulties. Bu take heart! I've conquered the world"--The Message.

"I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world."--NLV

Have peace. Be assured. Take Heart.

There will be joy.