It’s not always easy.
Sometimes it’s very hard and when the pressures hits at all angles it’s difficult to find consolation or some outlet to relieve the pressure. For me I used to have outlets but it has got to the point where even these prove to be inadequate to deal with the issues cracking off in my brain.
At times like this you might think it’s the ideal time to roll out the scripture references that refer to God being a present help in time of trouble, or He will keep them in perfect peace whose minds are stayed on Him. Indeed those verses are reassuring. Yet what I have found of late is that there is something far more than therapeutic about hearing scriptures. Hearing the letters of Peter whether keenly and intently or just as something to hear as things progress. It does something to my mind. It doesn’t just put it on other things. What happens is as I hear the ups and downs of biblical characters and the consistent presence of a faithful and engaging God it writes hope into my situation.
It is the case that I find solace and comfort not just in a verse or select verses. I find the presence of a God who cares for me in the ebbs and flows of scripture. Narrative or letter, genealogy or wisdom, it is just so good to listen in the light of the love of the Lord who knew my head would be mashed and has given evidence of His ability to relate, connect and walk through with me.
Music often works to soothe me and so on, and I can understand why people find it therapeutic. What it is about hearing the Word is that it joins so many dots for me. It puts my mind at ease even if it raises my emotions through the drama and pathos of certain parts.
Strictly speaking it’s not studying the word, but at times it really is like meditating on it. And as it sinks deeper in me, so I realise my need for the Author of the Word to be ever near and real to me.
For His Name’s Sake
Shalom
C. L. J. Dryden
Life With CD 