Author’s Note: Another church newsletter submission. If it’s not your thing, feel free to skip it, won’t hurt my feelings any. Besides, how would I know if you did?

For his anger endureth but a moment; in his favor is life: weeping may endure for a night but joy cometh in the morning (Psalm 30, KJV)

Before Ludwig van Beethovan composed his Ninth Symphony, he endured enormous physical and emotional suffering. Not only had he almost completely lost his hearing and suffered other illnesses, but his brother died and he was involved in a protracted battle with his sister-in-law for custody of his nephew, Karl. The darkness was seemingly neverending, but instead of turning away from God, Beethovan poured his soul into composing one of the most powerful and recognizable pieces of music the classical world has ever known, a piece which glorified the power of God and the beauty of His creation. When we face difficult times, we have two choices: we can either give up on God or we can give our problems to Him and trust that He will help us find the strength to persevere. Psalm 30 reminds us that no matter how dark things may seem, the darkness is only temporary and joy will soon replace our sorrow. God hears our voice, even when we have no idea how to ask for help, and He will not let us falter. Joy will come again and for that we are His faithful followers.