Pastor's Column 8/20/2023

PASTOR’S COLUMN

“O Lord, how long will you forget me. Forever?” How long will you look the other way? How long must I struggle with anguish in my soul, with sorrow in my heart every day? How long will my enemy have the upper hand? Turn and answer me, O Lord my God! Restore the sparkle in my eyes, or I will die… But I trust in your unfailing love. I will rejoice because you have rescued me.” Psalm 13:1-3;5, NLT

“Shifting Your Thinking!”

One of the great tools God gives us in times of challenge, or fear, is the ability to think. On many occasions a person is not able to change the circumstances they find themselves in; but inner calm can create the ability to think of ways to move out of; or at least, beyond the troubling situation. Of course, the calm we should seek is not merely human contemplation or thought; but the peace which God offers. The Apostle Paul described this as, “The peace of God which surpasses all understanding; [for] it will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6, NKJV). Our problems may be external; outside of our ability to prevent sometimes. But the solutions are found within, as we align ourselves with God’s purpose. This Psalm is believed to be one penned by King David. So characteristic of a person who was brutally honest in expressing his discomforts; no fewer than four times, David hurls questions to God. He, like any of us who could encounter persistent problems, want to know, “How long, must the situation last?” This is a fair question. Although an answer will inevitably come; the waiting often seems like an eternity. As humans we are triggered to expect immediate relief. Pain and suffering were initially alien to the first human family of Scripture. However, with their diminished capacity for innocence after encountering sin; pain and discomfort was known; as well as attacks from an environment that now became chaotic and challenging. The “cry for help” since those ancient times, has been (and is) part of our human fare. David’s prayer and its resolute, however; reminds us, that the God who created us, will hear and answer our cries. David shifted his thinking to God’s sovereignty. He rejoiced; being kept alive and well!