“As worry and concern start to descend upon me, these words from a favorite hymn often come to mind:
“…so, when life gets dark and dreary, don’t forget to pray.”
I generally try to focus on the things that I can control – my thoughts and actions; my intentional responses to the words and behaviors of those around me; the order in my mind and home; the stewardships I have been given, and my relationship to God. As I keep that focus, I can feel hopeful, capable, and surrounded by light.
However, sometimes it’s hard not to notice and be affected by all around us right now that can be frightening, confusing and hurtful. The constant news streaming about a deadly virus, growing contention, violence and unrest; devastating natural disasters; and family and friends dealing with tragedy and trials. I can feel so helpless to do anything to make it any better. Darkness begins to seep in.
As worry and concern start to descend upon me, these words from a favorite hymn often come to mind:
“…so, when life gets dark and dreary, don’t forget to pray.” *
I need that reminder. I need to remember that prayer connects me to God, and “…God hath not given us the spirit of fear, but of power, and of love, and of a strong mind.” (1 Timothy 1:7)
So, I pray.
After praying and listening for direction, the thing that usually fills my heart is that my only job today is to trust God and to do my best to follow His guidance. He helps me see the good. He helps me discern truth. He helps me feel strong enough to do what is most needful in the moment. And He will help me today to dispel the dreary, dark feeling, and to fill my little part of the world with more light, with more truth, and with more love.
So, when life gets dark and dreary….
Don’t forget to pray!
Find hope after loss 