Meditation
NEVER ALONE Dr. Joseph Stowell
“Do not let your hearts be troubled.” John 14:1
We have all had times when we feel alone and are troubled by the fact that no one really understands our fears and struggles. In these times, it is important to focus on the fact that God has provided meaningful sources of comfort. His resources are available to all who tap in to the companionship and counsel He provides.
His Word. I find it particularly helpful to read the Psalms when my spirits are low. The psalmist is often despairing but consistently finds hope in his God. Survey several psalms, and go deep in the ones that minister to your heart, especially Psalms 13, 27, and 42. The many praise psalms offer weary hearts something to be thankful for. A good dose of gratitude always helps!
Prayer. As my Pentecostal friends often say, sometimes we need to “pray through,” staying on our knees until Jesus breaks through and we are given the comfort, wisdom, and peace He promises. Pray psalms back to God, and spend seasons of silent prayer where you wait for Him to dawn upon your spirit until you are ready to face another day…but not alone.
Prayer. As my Pentecostal friends often say, sometimes we need to “pray through,” staying on our knees until Jesus breaks through and we are given the comfort, wisdom, and peace He promises. Pray psalms back to God, and spend seasons of silent prayer where you wait for Him to dawn upon your spirit until you are ready to face another day…but not alone.
His Spirit. His Spirit dwells in you for the express purpose of bringing comfort and illuminating the Word of God. He prays on our behalf and understands our infirmities better than we do (Hebrews 4:15). Cultivating a sensitivity to His inner prompting and counsel, based on God’s Word, brings the comfort He promised.
His people. When Jesus left His disciples, He commanded them to love each other as He had loved them (John 15:12). Find a fellow cross-bearer. Even if they don’t fully understand your troubles, their listening ear and prayer support will bring comfort.
Heaven. As Jesus told His despairing followers, “Let not your heart be troubled…I go to prepare a place for you” (John 14:1-2 KJV). Many of our problems are simply the outcomes of living among a fallen race in a fallen place. But, thanks to Jesus, the best is yet to come. Hearts fixed on heaven are hearts looking forward to home. No matter how bad it gets here, it’s not forever…that’s what heaven is!
Meditate, memorize, and believe what He has promised. Claim something for your own soul.