There were two men who were imprisoned in a Nazi concentration camp. One of the men, Shimon, was steadfast in his belief and faith in G-d, whereas the other man, Reuven, was constantly questioning his belief. Shimon would always try to strengthen Reuven with words of encouragement and faith, assuring him that G-d was with them even during their dark and difficult times. The day came when they were both stripped and led into the gas chambers. As the nazis YMS crammed more and more Jews into the chamber Reuven turned to Shimon and asked "where is G-d now"? Shimon turned to Reuven and said even now Hashem is with us here. The Nazis YMS continued to push more and more Jews in but it was so overcrowded and they couldn't close the door. Shimon was a hefty man and as he stood by the door the nazis yanked him out to enable them to close the door. Shimon with his steadfast belief, even in the most trying times never gave up hope. He was saved, eventually surviving the war and making his way to Israel

Our sages teach us from King Chizkiyahu, that even if a sharp sword is placed upon a person's neck he should never give up hope and stop praying for salvation. King Chizkiyahu was informed by the prophet that he would die the next day. The word of G-d was told to Chizkiyahu, "you will die", what was Chizkiyahu's response? He turned and prayed to Hashem. It was his prayer which saved his life and he continued to lead the Jewish People for years to come. 

Shabbat Shalom,

Heath