As I prepared to write tonight’s blog there was a word that kept coming to my mind. Downcast. It’s not a happy word. When we use it to describe feelings it means feeling despondent, sad, dejected, glum or low in spirit. I’m glad to report that the word doesn’t describe my current feelings or state or mind. But believe me, I have felt all of those feelings before and probably will again at some point. We all have and will.
I want to tell you, though, that there is hope! If you are experiencing any of those feelings, or if you want to be prepared for the next time you are in battle with them, I want to introduce you to Psalm 3:3. “But you are a shield around me, O Lord; you bestow glory on me and lift up my head.” The book of Psalms is a collection of poetic prayers written about real feelings and worries, confessions and sorrows, praises and adorations. The authors are pouring out their soul to the Lord while either in the depths of despair or the heights of celebration. Psalm 3, in particular, was written by David during a very troubling time. David’s son, Absalom, had set out to overthrow David from throne by starting a rebellion, turning people away from him, and causing him to flee for his safety. He was in serious danger and his own son was the reason. Imagine not only the fear, but the heartache David was feeling at that knowledge. And yet, at one of the lowest points of his life, David penned “But you are a shield around me, O Lord; you bestow glory on me and lift up my head.” David trusted God. He knew something we all need to know. That is, when we are face to face with our enemies and are filled with fear and insecurity, we must put our trust in God. He is our protector. He is the restorer of our peace.
My favorite part of this short verse is when it says God will “lift up my head”. When I am feeling depressed, hopeless, lost and defeated it feels as though I am carrying such a heavy burden and my eyes are focused downward. I am, at that very moment, the definition of downcast. And when I feel like this, the most important thing for me is to bring these feelings to God in prayer (or better yet, cry out to Him as did David and his co-writers!). For God has the power to protect me and restore peace to my life. But in order for Him to lift my head, my head needs to be bowed to Him in prayer.
Friend, I believe in God’s promise and I really want you to believe it, too. God hears you and loves you. Let Him take away some of your pain by praying to Him and trusting Him. And when your head is lifted once again (and it will be, I promise!) remember to soak in all the goodness this life has to offer and offer Him praise.
Love, Melissa
During the upcoming week I’ll be giving thought to Hebrews 12:1 “…let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.” I hope you’ll join me! And, as always I’d love to hear from you.
Melissa Pillone Speaks 