1 Kings 18:44a – At the seventh time he said, "Look, a little cloud no bigger than a person's hand is rising out of the sea." (NRSV)

Three years ago, I was diagnosed with burnout, anxiety, and severe depression. Formerly a full-time teacher, my days suddenly revolved around visiting doctors and psychiatrists, taking medication, and trying to cope with mental lows and fears.

I felt weak and frustrated, yet I was determined to make a full recovery. I prayed and praised God for my deliverance. I believed that I would get well. Yet months went by, and I saw little progress.

Did I get discouraged? Yes. Did I wonder secretly in my heart if things would ever get better? Sometimes. However, I remained insistent that God would heal me.

Furthermore, I started to get severe headaches. In response, I delved into Scripture; I fasted and kept on praying. I concentrated on keeping my eyes on Jesus and thanking Him for healing me. I imagined myself being well and whole again.

Then, one day, the headaches suddenly stopped.

It was my little cloud of hope, a small but significant sign that carried a loving assurance from God that more healing was coming. Since then, I have been making continuous improvement in my recovery.

God pours out great blessings from small beginnings. And it all starts with a little cloud of hope.

Friends, if you are deep in the midst of strife and don't see any end in sight, ask God in prayer to show you His presence. Let Him guide you to that little cloud of hope, that assurance that He is moving in your situation.

Prayer: Wonderful Lord, thank You that when we wait on You in faith, You will send us a little cloud of hope: the beginning of a great outpouring of Your blessings. Amen.

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About the author:

Madeline Kalu <madelinetwooney@gmail.com>
Bochum, Germany
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