He has overcome the world, don't lose hope!

There's a boy... a young man really, at Kolfe who is struggling.  You see, school is more than just something you just do over there because your young.  It's their lifeline!  It means the difference between having a shot at one of the few jobs that might be open, and a life on the streets, homeless, hungry and scared.  School is everything for these boys. 

Another friend called me last night and asked me to pray for him... he has a degree (a high degree) and yet, can't find work in his field, and will lose the job he currently has in March.  He needs a job.  Jobs in Ethiopia are HARD to come by.  My heart aches for them...

So, as I pushed "send" on another email of encouragement for this Kolfe boy, I thought... why not?  I WANT to encourage anyone who too might be struggling through a storm in their life right now.

So here is what I said to the boy I'll call "K"...

BTW... the photos I have added are really just to keep your attention!  Who likes to just read and read without photos?? :o)

My sweet, sweet boy... my heart aches for you right now. I love you so much, and it hurts me to think of you hurting. I know how important school is to all of you, and it seems like you and (another boy) are having a difficult time with school right now. 

 "K" it is in the really tough times that we need to hold on to Jesus. It's like when I was with you, and the sun was shining one minute, and the next minute, those crazy African rains would come and pour down on us. What would we do? We would run for the "cafe" outside your dorm. We would run for "shelter". Jesus wants to be your shelter, "K".

God is our refuge and strength,an ever-present help in trouble. Psalm 46:1

We have been learning in church about troubles. Troubles will come, even as Christians, we are not promised an easy "trouble free" life, but we are promised a shelter in the storm. Jesus wants to be more than just your "religion". He wants to me more than just your "rituals" of fasting, prayers to the intercessors, celebrations, and Sunday church. He wants to be your EVERYTHING!!! Your friend, your hope, your shelter, your future...

John 16:33 “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! (Keep going! Don't lose hope!) I have overcome the world.”

I love you, "K"! "Take heart" today, and put your hope and trust in Jesus.

How about you... are you putting your hope and trust in Christ today?  Need help figuring out exactly how to go about that?  I'd love to help!  ~ Tamara