Ever had one of those weeks where you just want to sit in a corner and heave a big sigh of melancholy? I'm really not a morose person most of the time--in fact, on occasion I've been called Pollyanna (and I'm pretty sure the person didn't intend it as a compliment)--but I do try to keep a positive attitude. However, lately, my sunny outlook has been plagued by a storm cloud. Not so much for myself, but for friends and loved ones who are facing major, life-impacting trials. There seems to be a deluge of "not so nice" things happening to people I truly care about.Years ago (when I was in high school..and that's been more years than it sure seems possible--where does the time go?), I developed the habit of "going to the Psalms" whenever I felt low. In those pages, I always managed to find something that would restore my attitude. For the past two weeks, every morning, I've gone to the Psalms in search of words of encouragement to turn my focus on Him rather than the trouble-cloud hovering over head. And yesterday my soul delighted in Psalm 84. One verse in particular spoke to my heart:
6 When they walk through the Valley of Weeping, it will become a place of refreshing springs. (Read the Psalm it in its entirety here.)
Doesn't that verse just make you draw in a deep breath and then release it on a satisfied "ahhhh"? If you've ever sat beside a mountain spring, you can recall the sweet scent, the gentle melody of water tripping over rocks, the cool gush across your bare toes. "Refreshing" is the perfect word to describe those moments. I know God is in the business of making beauty out of ashes, but it's hard to remember that truth when you're sitting in the ash pile.
Maybe you're walking through a valley of weeping right now, too, and perhaps you feel weighted down with melancholy. Why not go to the Psalms? Sneak away, close your eyes, and envision yourself beside a spring...a spring welling with God's goodness. While you're there, sing the song that was based on Psalm 84. God inhabits praise, so He'll certainly arrive when you break into song--and we always feel better when we're close to Him.
God bless you muchly as you journey with Him! ~Kim
Thanks Kim!
ReplyDeleteThat was a very timely post for me! And yes the Psalms always give me hope when I read them. It is there where I found this verse yesterday: "A father of the fatherless, a defender of widows,is God in His holy habitation" Psalms 68:5
Being a widow now for 8 years, sometimes when I allow myself to get "burdened" by the trials of life;whether they are mine or those of someone close to me, I tend to feel vulnerable and wishing for a big shoulder to lean on. This was how I was feeling when the Holy Spirit reminded me in this scripture that He is my defender! And what better defender could anyone want? (smile)
Thanks again for your post, it encouraged me.
Veronica
Veronica, I think when we realize He is all we need--father, comforter, friend, support...--we finally find the place of true contentment. YOUR message blessed ME, so thank you!
ReplyDeleteKim, thank you for the gentle reminder. I love the way the Psalms speak to everyone in every season of their life.
ReplyDeleteGreat post, Kim - - thank you for sharing this! ~ I've always loved the Psalms too, and in fact for the past few weeks have had this particular verse on an index card next to my laptop: In my distress I cried unto the Lord, and He heard me. (Psalm 120:1)~ I love how the Bible provides answers and comfort for any situation or "crisis" and the Psalms is often the first place I search! Hugs, Patti Jo :)
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