Listening to the small still voice of the Holy Spirit, responding to the verse in Psalm 46; 10 “Be Still, Know that I am God” probably is one of the most difficult things to do for me. I know that peace that comes over you when you know that you know you are in God’s will. But have you just come before the Lord and listened, really listened. How convicting is the verse that says, “You do not have, because you did not ask,” I struggle listening for that still small voice, and I really struggle praying for myself.
Two weeks ago my right knee that has a partial knee begins to hurt and I am thinking what did I do to hurt my knee? I can’t think of anything but guess what I am really struggling with this pain. I sometimes wonder why I have these health issues. Psalm 119: 69b-77 sheds some light on my troubles.
I keep your precepts with all my heart. their hearts are callous and unfeeling, but I delight in your law. It was good for me to be afflicted so that I might learn your decrees. The law from your mouth is more precious to me than thousands of pieces of silver and gold. Your hands made me and formed me; give me understanding to learn your commands. May those who fear you rejoice when they see me, for I have put my hope in your word. I know, Lord, that your laws are righteous, and that in faithfulness you have afflicted me. May your unfailing love be my comfort, according to your promise to your servant. Let your compassion come to me that I may live, for your law is my delight.
Whether I am in pain or not, I owe my life to the Lord. I am asking for His compassion to come to me that I may live. When the pain is great, I struggle with my depression. In Dr. Michelle Bengtson’s book Hope Prevails: Insight from a Doctor’s Personal Journey through Depression she has a Letter To My Depressed Self at the begging of the book. Knowing Michelle, I can almost hear her voice.
“Dear Diana, (Your Name) I know you are in pain…. You feel as if you can’t sink any lower, and that no-one understands. But I do, I’ve been there… you know I have. On the other side of depression’s valley, I encourage you to persevere. You won’t always feel this way, there are brighter days ahead!
What a strong team you and God are together. He is such a faithful provider! You cannot see clearly through your searing tears right now, but… God has been with you ever second of every minute of your despair and you are not alone! You will see the day when … You will know God deeply and intimately, appreciate joy, savor peace, and relate to other with a knowing compassion.”
The letter goes on to confirm that we are redeemed and forgiven, considered a saint. We can give God all of our burdens. Beloved, are you struggling with health issues such as I am? We are his treasured possession.
Father God, thank you for being in my today and my tomorrows. Thank you for healing me and helping me to cope with pain. Lord thank you for Dr. Michelle Bengtson and for telling her story. Protect her from the evil one. Guard our minds and our emotions. Lord, heal my knee and my chronic headache. Thank you for the friends that I have met because of the internet. In Jesus’ name Amen
