“O LORD, my strength, and my fortress, and my refuge in the day of affliction” (Jeremiah 16:19).

Jim came home that day in November. Everything seemed typical as he pulled into the driveway. His wife’s car was gone, and he thought it was strange as she was always home from work an hour or so ahead of him. As he walked into the kitchen he discovered a note on the table. In part it read, “I am leaving you, Jim. I have been living a lie the last few months. I’ve met someone new. Don’t try to find me. It’s over. I’ll be in touch later. Sarah Louise.” Never had he felt such devastation, anger, loss, grief, and did I mention anger? A few days later he told his pastor, “How could I have not sensed this coming? It hit me, blindsided me like an eighteen wheeler.” Sarah Louise never came home. However in this terrible trial and affliction Jim learned a lot about the LORD’S strength. How He personally is a fortress and a refuge in the day of affliction. More about this tomorrow.

For today: What are you dealing with today? God wants to be your fortress. Are you relying upon the Lord’s strength?