Encouragement

God in the suffering

by Lorraine Taylor
07/05/21
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"Even after we came into the province of Macedonia, we found no relief. We were restless and exhausted, troubles met us at every turn. Outwardly I faced conflicts and inwardly emotional turmoil. But God, who always knows how to encourage the depressed, encouraged us greatly by the arrival of Titus." 2 Corinthians 7:8-7 TPT

The only way I got through the ordeal of the death of my son and now traveling from the East Coast to the West due to the mental health issues of our adult daughter, is from our Lord's love.When we experience intense heartache from the challenges in this world, we share similar emotions, such as the Apostle Paul and his missionary team. Likewise, we hold familiar sentiments with all our fellow humans. There is not one person who has not felt like Paul, discouraged, depressed, restless, anxious.

As a parent, we are concerned about our child(ren) coping with mental illness, sentenced to jail/prison, struggling with addictions, living with disabilities, estranged from our family, or has disappeared. As a result, our insides churn, thrash, and we spend sleepless nights, exhausting days, anguishing wondering.

Even as believers, we can be heavily weighted in helplessness, finding no relief. Painful sorrow is often more than we are capable of bearing. Tears flow in groaned prayers, energy wanes, and we cry out to our Lord;

 'Where are you? Why is this happening? I cannot take anymore.'

When remedies are not available, and we have exhausted resources, our Lord sometimes sends helpers. They offer prayerful encouragement, compassionately embrace, warmly touching the hurt with the comfort of a caring human presence.

The things of this world often press us beyond human ability, knowledge, intellect. However, the close relationships we develop, foster, and nurture can bring solace, sanity, and peace. Even when circumstances do not change, our heart attitude will.

Within the safety known in close friendships in a beloved community, light glimmers through the cracks of our vulnerability and brokenness. In the abiding relationship with our Lord and one another, we discover the deeper aspects of the divine, the holy, the spiritual.

So, it is in darkness, dire events, and the unknown, we do not despair or lose hope. On the contrary, our Lord's constant shepherding passion pursues, inviting and beckoning us to come near, come to him, and drink from the heavenly well that never runs dry.  His hushed voice whispers for us to be still, rest, and lie down in the green meadows of his provisional and supplied sufficiency. His endearing care grasps hold of our aching hearts and his tangible presence embalms the pain in an inclusive grace and mercy (Psalm 23).

Prayer

Today Lord, lead me into a more expansive view of who you are. Reveal your love in a more profound depth opening my heart that I might receive the offering of mercy and grace. Remind me who you are and who I am in you, that I may listen and respond to your voice of love.