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When Life is Hard… but God is Still Good: A Reflection on Psalm 100:5
I’ve had moments where it feels like everything is working against me.
Honestly, some seasons just feel heavier than others. There are days where everything seems to come at once… where things don’t move the way you hoped they would, and no matter how much you try, it feels like you’re not really getting anywhere.
I’ve been there more times than I’d like to admit. In those moments, it is so easy to start questioning everything: your direction, your efforts, and even yourself. But lately, I’ve been holding on to a simple, encouraging faith quote: Life can be hard, but God is always good.
I’ve realized that I need to be reminded of God’s faithfulness most when everything else feels uncertain. I keep coming back to the grounding words of Psalm 100:5:
“For the LORD is good; His steadfast love endures forever, and His faithfulness to all generations.”
Love That Stays
God’s goodness isn’t dependent on how my situation looks today. It doesn’t come and go with my feelings… and it isn’t tied to whether things are working out in my timing.
It stays.
God is always good even in the middle of things I don’t fully understand. That truth has been changing how I go through my days. Instead of trying to force everything into place, I’m learning to pause. I’m learning to bring what’s heavy to Him honestly and trust that He sees more than I do.
He’s still working things out… even when I can’t see the outcome yet.
Behind the Artwork
In this piece, I wanted to combine elements that feel both fragile and enduring. I used a mixed-media torn paper collage junk journal aesthetic because I love how imperfect they feel, just like the highs and lows in my life, and the varied moments in my days.
As I worked on these vintage-inspired doodles, I reflected on how these elements come together as a modern approach to faith-based art:
- Embroidery and Cross-Stitched Pattern: Embroidery is such a patient art form. It takes one stitch at a time to create a whole picture. It reminds me that God is working on a tapestry of our lives, stitched by His love, and in His perfect timing.
- Cute Little Bird and Feathers: These symbolize God’s gentle care and protection. Just the birds of the air are provided for, we can trust that we are held together in safety and protection under the shadow of His wings.
- Decorative Plate and Cherries with a Cross: Using homely, kitchen-inspired doodles helps me remember that God’s goodness is found in the ordinary, everyday parts of our lives… not just the big milestones.
- Script and Playful Lettering: Hand-lettering these words was a way for me to be honest about the tough moments, while still celebrating the good… And to slow down and breathe. It was a reminder to myself that while my circumstances might be still be “in progress,” God’s faithfulness is already a finished work.
He’s Not Done With Your Story
If you’re in a season that feels overwhelming, unclear, or slower than you hoped, maybe you don’t need to have it all figured out today. You can just hold on to this: He’s still good. He’s still faithful.
He’s not done with your story. You don’t have to carry the weight of the future on your shoulders. Take a moment today to remind your heart of God’s promises that hold true, even in the middle of the waiting season.
A Simple Reflection for Your Day
- When things feel heavy, do you tend to question your efforts or God’s goodness? What would it feel like to choose to trust His character today, regardless of what you’re seeing or experiencing now?
- What’s one small reminder of God’s goodness you’ve noticed in your life recently?
FAQ: Understanding God’s Faithfulness
How can God be good if life is so hard?
Biblical goodness doesn’t mean the absence of trouble; it’s the presence of God within the trouble. God’s goodness is defined by His character… His kindness, His mercy, and His promise to never leave us. Hardship is a part of our broken world. But God is the constant source of strength for believers, and He carries us through it all.
What does “steadfast love” (or “lovingkindness”) mean in Psalm 100:5?
The word used here is hesed, which refers to a God’s grace, His faithfulness, and His covenant-keeping love. It’s a love that is based on His commitment, not an emotion. And we can freely receive this today because we are reconciled to Him through Jesus’ sacrifice.
How do I stay grounded when everything feels uncertain?
Staying grounded starts with looking at what is certain. While our situations change, God’s Word and His character do not. Returning to Scripture verses like Psalm 100:5 helps anchor our minds to the truth so we don’t get swept away by our fears, worries, or anxieties.
You Are Never Alone
You don’t have to handle the tough moments in life by yourself. You can rest in the truth that a good God is leading you, one step at a time. You are loved. You are seen. And you are always being cared for.
— Nicole
A Little Invitation
If you’ve been needing a little more encouragement lately, I share a weekly creative reflection and simple journal prompt in my free studio letter. It’s a space to quiet the noise and rest in God’s goodness together. You’re so welcome to join us!
