Life is a constant challenge. As much as there are beautiful experiences at every phase of life, there are also battles and problems in every phase. We were created for paradise, and there is an eternal longing in our hearts to get back to paradise. Many who do not understand God’s plan for the world assume they can create paradise on earth. Throughout history, every effort at creating paradise on earth, in a way that doesn’t take God’s truth into account, has resulted in the opposite of paradise. Marxism has promised paradise over and over again, but has only produced poverty, imprisonment, and suffering. Politicians often promise paradise but never deliver.

Until Christ returns, we will never see paradise fully restored. However, for the believer, we are given the promise that God will never leave us but will be with us through every step of our journey in this life. I read this beautiful promise in 2 Chronicles 16:9: “For the eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to give strong support to those whose heart is blameless toward him.” The word blameless here represents a person whose heart is whole, sincere, undivided, and fully turned toward God. 

I can testify to the truth of this promise in my own life. Over and over and over again, I have felt the strong support of the Lord. Like others, I’ve had many tough days when I wondered where the Lord was, but as I kept my hope in the Lord by doing my best to follow His plan, He has come through again and again. It greatly comforts me to think that the Lord is looking all over the earth for those who love Him and is anxious to give us strong support. 

Maybe you’re facing a serious battle. I encourage you to allow the Holy Spirit to examine your heart. Are you blameless in the sense that your greatest desire is to love and please the Lord? If the Lord reveals anything that you need to repent of, repent now. Humble yourself before the Lord and then rest in the promise that he will give you the strong support you need to make it through whatever you are facing.

Editor’s note:

And here’s the Good News: The author’s encouragement rests on God’s presence through hardship, rather than a promise that hardship will disappear. His reflection invites us to examine our hearts and seek the Lord with sincerity. We can bring our fears before God while asking whether our choices reflect the love and trust we profess. Which concern could you bring to the Lord in prayer while taking one honest step of repentance or obedience?

By Jeff Keaton. From RenewaNation newsletter, October 13, 2026. RenewaNation.