When our hearts are heavy with sadness, others don’t always feel the same depth of pain. Friends and family members may try to jolly us along. They want us to be happy because our sadness is dragging them down.
All we want to do is be alone, cry healing tears, treasure a little peace and quiet, and ponder what to do under the circumstances. Instead we hear words like this.
“So you lost your job. Big deal. Let’s go out to dinner.”
“So your mom has Alzheimer’s. How is that your problem? I’ll see you at the picnic.
“Get over it! Your husband has been dead for two months already. Get a life. Lighten up. Your constant crying is depressing.”
These are actual comments reported by suffering people; comments made by others who should have known better; comments that both hurt and stir up resentment. I won’t begin to tell you the kind of things well-meaning friends said to me when my husband died.
Psalm 137:3- for there our captors asked us for songs, our tormentors demanded songs of joy; they said, “Sing us one of the songs of Zion!” (NIV)
Where can we go in the midst of our suffering, when friends don’t understand? There is only one place that offers healing to every situation.
Psalm 119:50–This is my comfort and consolation in my affliction: that Your word has revived me and given me life (AMP).
Of course the time will come when we are able to enjoy life again and face the future in the midst of our new circumstances. We will indeed be able to sing again.
Psalm 119:154–Plead my cause and redeem me; revive me and give me life according to Your word (AMP)
Until then?
Prayer: Lord, we cling to your promise in Psalm 138:7a. Though I walk in the midst of trouble, you will revive me (AMP). Amen
Be First to Comment