By Benescke Janse van Rensburg

Scientists at Japan's Keio University recently launched a robotic tail, Argue. The tail works like a pendulum and when an elderly person who wears it, loses his or her balance, the tail will pull them upright to prevent them landing on their faces.

In our own lives, we sometimes experience challenges that make us feel as if we are falling to the ground - news of an extramarital affair, a diagnosis of a dreaded illness, debt that threatens to overwhelm us, bad news at the work or a challenge with one of our children. In such challenging times, we need to remind ourselves that Jesus did not leave us behind as orphans. He ascended to heaven so we can receive the Holy Spirit to strengthen us during difficult times.

Here are five promises we can hold onto in difficult times:

• Isaiah 40:29: “He gives power to the weak and strength to the powerless.”

• Psalm 46:1-3: “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging.”
  

• Psalm 138:3: “When I called, you answered me; you made me bold and stouthearted.”
  

• 2 Corinthians 12:9: “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.”

• Isaiah 30:15: “In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength.”

What would happen if an elderly person with a robotic tail counteracted the force that wants to erect him or her? They will probably fall flat on the ground. In the same way, duringdifficult times, we need to surrender to God, be quiet, and trust Him to raise us up. When we are weak, He is strong. He remains in control. Let's give Him a chance to strengthen us. God bless.

Father God, thank you for picking me up me when it feels as if the storms in my life are about to overwhelm me. Help me to put my faith and trust in You. I ask it in the Name of Jesus Christ. Amen.

• Take a look at some photos of the robotic tail at www.benescke.co.za or on Stories van Hoop page on Facebook.

• Feedback: For feedback on the series or if you would like to share your testimony about something God has done in your life, please send me an email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. It's always nice to hear from readers. Benescke