Today’s Reading: Psalm 142
When I was a child, I used to run from our neighbors, the Anderson’s to my house. It was in the country, and you had to pass by some woods and often a cornfield before you made it home. ( I once snuck downstairs and watched a part of a movie my older brothers were watching, Children of the Corn, bad idea…) I would literally run full sprint for 3/4 of a mile screaming for our dog to meet me halfway. In addition to pure fear, I felt alone and afraid. As a boy, I would often feel alone as I hung out with friends who seemed to have their home life together as I witnessed our household fall apart. Even as an adult, I can speak of a time where I was afraid, alone, and a little insecure about what the future would hold.
We can all feel loneliness at times. David was feeling this way as he stayed in a cave hiding from Saul. I think there is a difference between being alone and loneliness. Alone can be more of a physical state of being, where loneliness can occur even when you have others around. Have you ever felt this way? Deserted, depressed, defeated? David shares some instructions here on what he did to work on healing.
- Cry aloud to God. Let Him know how you are feeling. I’ve realized through the years I can’t fake it all the time and pretend everything is all good. I’ve also realized the answers I’m looking for don’t come from any of my ideas. They are all His. He is the One who knows us best. (Verse 1-2)
- Remember that He is watching over us! The noise of the world can muffle the Lord’s voice. Everything wants our time and attention. The world can give out a beating on your emotional state and leave you struggling. (Verse 3)
- Allow Him to be your Refuge. David was being fearful, abandoned, and feeling like he had lost everything. Still, God is above it all and
- Remember – Problems will fade in His Presence. God will show us his Goodness just like he showed David. (verse 7)
Are you dealing with feeling alone? Depressed? Feeling imprisoned by your surroundings?
When my spirit was overwhelmed within me,
Then You knew my path.
Take a moment to refocus on Him. Take the cares, worries, and problems and turn them over to Him. Heavenly Father, help us turn to you when our emotions get the best of us, when we feel alone, afraid, imprisoned, or scared. You will grant us comfort. Please help us to trust in your plans for our lives.
Bring my soul out of prison,
That I may praise Your name;
The righteous shall surround me,
For You shall deal bountifully with me.”
Have a blessed day!