It has been said that pain is the great human connector. When we experience pain we are linked with all others who are also going through heartache, grief and discomfort, and in that shared experience we can pray and heal one another.

A balanced life comes from having faith and trusting God. When you let go of doubt and fear and give yourself fully to the moment, you can relax in the present. You can appreciate what you are going through—even if it is not what you had in mind.

Life is a journey of experiences and countless gifts, but sometimes problems overshadow the goodness in the world. The practice of prayer helps to heal challenging situations and reveals light, love and forgiveness in even the most difficult times. When we turn to God, we experience His divine insight.

Jesus’ first miracle served an ordinary purpose and possibly one many can relate to even today—the wine had run out at a party. Only the servants were aware that the best wine had actually come from water. The miracle was a fitting end to a wedding, but of course as we all now know, it was just the beginning.

Jesus puts an idea in our hearts for a reason. Yet what does this mean when no matter how hard we try, it feels like the doors of opportunity are closing rather than opening? Perhaps God is helping you grow in patience and faith as you wait until He opens a different door in His perfect time.

Whatever is weighing on your heart, God invites you to pour out your problems to Him and let His love in. Quiet your mind and listen for His guidance as He fills you with the warmth and radiance of divine love. Know that God will somehow work things out for the best.

When you are having a rough time, invite God’s glorious presence into your heart. As you shift your focus beyond your personal problems, you’ll find yourself capable of not only handling your own circumstances, but able to support others who also face similar struggles.

Jesus is always at work in our lives but because we are human and have free will, of course there are days, months, or even possibly years that we would like to edit or maybe even erase completely. Fortunately, God’s grace does exactly that. He allows us to forgive ourselves, to view our past with compassion and understanding and to be grateful for every day we have lived.

Without a doubt, this year has been difficult with unique challenges, disappointments and fears. Yet, when you reflect on the present you can see how God’s grace helped to pull you through. God is always with you, leading you through difficult times and creating opportunities that will enrich your life.

Jesus reminds us that He is the light of the world. When problems or difficult feelings entangle your heart, ask God to help you see that good things are ahead. He will light the way to a better day.