More than ever it’s imperative to be on our knees asking the Lord to draw near. To rest on His scriptures of comfort and care when it seems everything is scary and dark. To invite Him to stir us toward love for those we understand and even more so for those we don’t. He is a faithful God who is near to the broken-hearted and to those who call on Him. He will not leave us in our time of need but remind us of His love.
… that they would seek God, if perhaps they might grope for Him and find Him, though He is not far from each one of us; Acts 17:27
‘You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart Jeremiah 29:13
O taste and see that the LORD is good; How blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him! O fear the LORD, you His saints; For to those who fear Him, there is no want. The young lions do lack and suffer hunger, but they who seek the LORD shall not be in want of any good thing. Psalm 34:8-10
If you have been anywhere near the interwebs then you are well aware that we are learning of awful cases of sexual abuse, devastating natural disasters, and mass shootings. Like you, I get so overwhelmed by the hellacious nature of it all. Yet, I’m reminded that I know the Healer and when I call out to Him, that is the first way I serve those affected by a tragedy. Then, I act with intention to see hope and restoration for those who’ve been victimized. Pray first. Act second.
In these days of aches and pains painted across our communities, we can pray to the Healer and then be his hands and feet.
Whatever it is that is breaking your heart, I strongly encourage you to research local organizations you can partner with. Or, if there is someone in your world whose heart is shattered, don’t waste a minute in walking alongside her. It will never be a waste of time to encourage her, speak the truth, and offer hope where hurt has made a home.
We can do this. We can rise up in prayer and action when situations are hard. We can be the givers of love on someone else’s dark day, month, or year.
For encouragement in hard times, read about hope on the dark days or my thoughts on serving a friend in crisis.