“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble” (Psalm 46:1).
In earlier days, when I got depressed, I reached for chocolate. Gradually, I have weaned myself off that indulgence (almost!). However, sometimes a dark cloud will blindside me for one reason or another and chocolate wins out.
I don’t like feeling depressed and I struggled to untangle myself from it recently, but my efforts weren’t working. Then one day as I was praying and reading my Bible, I stumbled across a scripture which I have read many times: “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble” (Psalm 46:1).
Tears flooded my eyes. For the first time this scripture helped me see troubles or suffering as “AN INVITATION,” an invitation into God’s presence to receive His peace and comfort and to come out the other side with joy. Words cannot express the warmth and love that I felt.
My prayer for you is that you would uniquely experience God’s “invitation” the next time you are assaulted with the adversary’s or life’s crushing blows and that you will welcome His strength, love, and mercy that surround you!
Grab hold of God’s “invitation”. It is better than chocolate!
PatM
Oh Pat, I can certainly identify with this. . . and it was timed perfectly for me.
Sending hugs.
Hi Jane, thanks for your comment and for your prayers!
What a precious reminder. Thank you for sharing your insight and this passage.
Thanks for your comment, Mary Lou!
Thank you for this fresh view of a familiar promise! It reminds me of the quote I hear from Revive Our Hearts through the years: “Anything that makes me need God is a blessing.” Love and hugs, Hannah
Thank you, Hannah!