Everybody has trials and tribulations in their lives. However, God wants you to know that you should not worry about how long you have been going through those trials and tribulations. You should not be fearful while you are going through rough times because He can bring you out of them.
Luke wrote the gospel for the gentiles to provide them with a full and accurate record of all that Christ did and taught during His time on Earth. The text can serve today as proof of God’s power. It reminds us of His promises.
When I think about trials and tribulations, I am reminded of the woman with the issue of blood in Luke 8:43-48. She was going through a great physical trial. She was shunned by others and was unable to worship as she wanted, but she knew if she could just touch the hem of Jesus’ garment, she would be healed. Despite her weak body, the desperate woman somehow made her way to Jesus and touched His garment. She immediately gained strength and was healed.
She was full of desire to be healed, full of hunger to be changed, full of need to be whole again and full of longing to be accepted in the community. Just like this woman, we often are plagued with infirmities, and Jesus is touched by our cries and our physical and spiritual hunger for Him. We, too, should strive to touch Him daily so we can be renewed and released of our infirmities.
In Luke 19: 2-10, Zacchaeus also was desperate to see Jesus. Much like the woman, he suffered from afflictions of the spirit. The man served in public office and most likely engaged in unpopular business, but he recognized that he needed to seek a power higher than his own. In his desperation, Zacchaeus climbed a tree to see Jesus. Jesus noticed Zacchaeus and met with him. Zacchaeus found salvation that day because he was looking for it.
In our daily walks or even during moments of desperation, are we seeking Jesus? Jesus can provide us with the encouragement, healing and salvation we need. Make up your mind today to seek the salvation of the Lord. Reach out to Him for the promises He is able to provide. Even in moments of desperation, He still is there for you.

Williams is the pastor of Mt. Zion Outreach Center in Midway and a member of the United Ministerial Alliance.