Bible Text: Isaiah 59:1 | Speaker: Darlene Sala | Series: Encouraging Words | I wish you could meet Kathy–a beautiful trophy of God’s grace. Growing up with terrible physical and sexual abuse, Kathy came to know Christ when she was almost a teen, and was rescued by a caring teacher at that crucial time when she was headed for the trash heap of life. Today Kathy is the wife of a pastor and the mother of three boys. She ministers to other women who also are victims of abuse.

One day I had a chance to ask her a question that had been on my mind. “Okay, Kathy, I understand, now that you’ve had a relationship with the Lord for a number of years and you know the Bible and God’s promises, that you know He will sustain you through hard times. But how did you know as a young girl that God was your answer?”

“At first I didn’t,” said Kathy. “My problems were too big for anyone, especially a little girl. I had to take a chance on God. I prayed a prayer of desperation because I only had God to turn to. I offered my life, and what the Lord gave back is unbelievable—peace, comfort, understanding, joy, and always love.”

Kathy was a victim. Nearly every one of the important people in her childhood let her down. They treated her as trash. Yet she took a chance on God. She turned to Him with all her heart and found that He keeps His promises.

Maybe you feel like trash because the significant people in your life have told you that’s what you are.  Dear friend, don’t believe it. The Holy Spirit will help if you call on Him, for He is the Comforter and Encourager.  You are special. God made you. The Bible says, “The Lord’s hand is not shortened, that it cannot save; neither his ear heavy, that it cannot hear” (Isaiah 59:1). Put yourself totally in His hands. Yes, do what Kathy did, and take a chance on God. He won’t let you down.