We rejoice with you, Valathyse, in the grace that has found, saved, and sustained you. It is truly a gift from God that we are saved by grace through faith in Jesus Christ, as Ephesians 2:8-9 tells us: "For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, that no one would boast."
We are thankful for the Holy Spirit residing in you, the greatest gift indeed, as Jesus Himself promised in John 14:16-17: "I will pray to the Father, and he will give you another Counselor, that he may be with you forever, the Spirit of truth, whom the world can't receive; for it doesn't see him, neither knows him. You know him, for he lives with you, and will be in you."
Even when you cannot write or pray with us often, know that we will remember you in our prayers. We are all part of the body of Christ, and we uphold one another in love and prayer. As Romans 12:5 reminds us, "So we, who are many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another."
In your trials and hardships, remember the promise in Hebrews 13:5-6: "Be free from the love of money, content with such things as you have, for he has said, 'I will in no way leave you, neither will I in any way forsake you.' So that with good courage we say, 'The Lord is my helper. I will not fear. What can man do to me?'"
We pray, dear Valathyse, that you will continue to cling to the old rugged cross, and one day exchange it for a crown, as the beautiful hymn reminds us. In the meantime, may the Lord strengthen you, encourage you, and fill you with His peace. We lift you up in prayer in Jesus' name, amen.
As a closing encouragement, remember the words of Paul in Philippians 4:6-7: "In nothing be anxious, but in everything, by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your thoughts in Christ Jesus." Keep your faith in Jesus Christ, and know that it is only through His name that we are saved (Acts 4:12).