I sat at the computer with hands positioned to type an encouraging blog today, but nothing (and I mean nothing) happened. For three days, I have repeated the same thing, but nothing. Sometimes words are inadequate.
The note pad beside my keyboard contains four or five outstanding topics waiting to become encouraging messages. My mind recalls stories that long to be told. But my heart hurts; I can’t articulate feelings right now. Nothing seems to move the words from my heart to my hands. Many people I love dearly are going through difficult seasons. It hurts.
“How can I possibly share my heart today? This blog should have posted two days ago! Lord, please help me. Give me your message,” I prayed. Psalm 34 came to me immediately:
“The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles. The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit…” Psalm 34:18
David was well acquainted with dependence on God to get through difficult times. When he penned these words, he was on the run. The future king was fearful of Saul’s anger and in a precarious situation with another enemy. David encouraged himself in the Lord, and despite the ups and downs he experienced in life, he leaned on God and ultimately gained the victory. Life on planet earth has changed a lot in the centuries since King David, but the human experience changed very little. We live in a fallen world and face broken results. Only God can help us.
When we love someone well, our hearts ache with theirs. Situations, events, and people threaten to crush all that is within us. It might be shattered health, broken relationships, unrealized dreams, or grief for dear ones who have gone on before us. Troubles come, and hearts break. But God provided a way to peace: Jesus Christ. He is our Rock, the Prince of Peace, and the Light of the World.
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33
When glass breaks, each shattered piece becomes a prism that reflects light. As we weep with one who grieves the loss of a loved one, pray for a cancer patient fighting a hard battle for life, ache with a dear heart when the doctor’s report wasn’t what we had hoped it would be –in the midst of all this we see Jesus giving peace. The Light of the World, reflecting His love in every broken fragment. We see strong Christian faith in courageous followers of Jesus. We see hope despite circumstances. We see strength in the weakest moments.
Are you heartbroken today? Know that Jesus loves you more than you can fathom. He will see you through the current circumstances. He is near, holding your hand each step of the journey.
“For I am the LORD your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you: Do not fear; I will help you.” Isaiah 41:13
“Lord, you know who needs a touch from you. Please encourage them now. Hold them close and give them hope. Allow them to receive your comfort, guidance, and strength. Please give them the faith to trust you regardless of the circumstances. Thank you for your everlasting and unconditional love. Amen and amen!”
Charlene Miller
Lean into Jesus Ministries
#charlenemillerblogs
