I just happened upon this email that I sent to a hurting student many years ago, but I think its truths might still be relevant to many people right now:

Dear _________

To say I am sorry to hear about your sufferings is an understatement, to say the least. Life is cruel, at times, and kind, sweet people like you too often bear the brunt of bad tidings and bad treatment. It would not be a sin for you to question God’s allowance of these sorrowful matters. You are human and in pain; you have experienced more abuse and anguish than most people encounter in our brief existence on this side of glory.

Just know, even at home, I am crying inside for you and wish I could just give you a big hug. You are hurting, but you are also loved and approved, broken and all. I hope you are talking to a counselor right now. Emotions can blind us to what hope can prove in time.

Still, life is not hopeless, even amongst sorrowful passages such as yours, right now. You have been hurt by others who should have protected you—just like Jesus. You have prayed to have the storm pass by, but it didn’t—just like Jesus. You are in the whirlwind and are struggling to see God, your Father—just like Jesus. You may feel abandoned by God, but you are not—just like Jesus.

God will rescue and restore you in the end because He is the great Healer. No wound is too deep that he cannot mend it with His unending love. No matter how black the darkness is around you, God’s light of love shines brighter.

God has allowed these things to happen, but like Job in the Old Testament, I don’t think it is because you are a bad person and deserve them. It is more likely because you are a strong person whom He knows can take painful experiences and turn them into inspiration and help for others in the future. I hear your story and I am blown away by your bravery and resilience.

So, be strong and hold on to God even tighter. Anchor yourself to Him. The stronger the wind, the closer you should move into the shelter of His arms. This storm will pass, eventually, and God will not let go of your hand. I promise.

I will be praying for you and want to hear how you are doing, regularly.

God bless.

Love, Knox