From: Ira Kapitonova in Kyiv (Day 831)
In distress you called, and I delivered you;
I answered you in the secret place of thunder;
I tested you at the waters of Meribah.
Psalm 81:7
This morning, I asked my students a simple question, “What do you worry about?” The answers of these 8- and 9-year-olds were too honest to bear:
– I am worried about my uncle, who is serving in the army.
– I am worried that my dad would need to go to the war.
– I am worried that a rocket may hit our home and I may die.
I stumbled for words but did continue with my plan for that lesson. I shared how important it is to come to God with our anxieties and, with thanksgiving, open our hearts before Him. I told them that we can thank God even before He answers our prayers, trusting that He is faithful and that He always cares for us.
I had to remind myself of this morning’s conversation later tonight when I was overwhelmed with anxiety. With the Russians destroying the Kharkiv and Sumy regions, with the energy deficit increasing, with horrible reports from the occupied territories, it becomes harder and harder to choose to be hopeful. Still, I know that we can trust the Lord and His faithfulness.
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. (Philippians 4:6)
Voice of Ukraine 
One response to “6/4/2024 — It becomes harder and harder to choose to be hopeful. Still, I know that we can trust the Lord and His faithfulness.”
“Can a woman forget her sucking child, that she should not have compassion on the son of her womb? yea, these may forget, yet will not I forget thee.” Isaiah 49:15
Our Father remembers your tears and knows them, and we have not forgotten you dear saints in Ukraine! May He build up your spiritual walls!
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