HEALER OF THE HEART
By Carolyn Dale Newell
Then He spoke a parable to them, that men always ought to pray and not lose heart,
Luke 18:1 NKJV
Waves crashed upon the boat as the men trembled. They were seasoned fishermen, but this was no ordinary storm. They feared for their lives. How could Jesus sleep in the boat while the tempest raged? The disciples needed Him now!
They roused Jesus from His nap, and He reminded them about their “little faith”. I doubt His voice was condemning. Possibly, He consoled the terrified disciples, telling them it would be OK. Jesus was on the scene, as He hushed the winds and waves.
Friend, it is going to be OK for you too. We all experience weaknesses, the particular ordeals which create anxiety and heartache. Our minds know God never leaves us, but sometimes, we feel abandoned. We have quoted verses to friends and family, but during our storms, we doubt these promises. We have felt peace beyond understanding, but now peace eludes us.? We know Scripture by heart, but today, our heart does not sense it.
In our verse, Jesus said that we ought to pray and not lose heart. There are seasons when we lose heart. His promises feel unattainable in moments of brokenness. He promised not to put more on us than we can bear. True, but He is our burden-bearer since He commanded us to cast our cares on Him.
When you have lost your spouse and the tears are unceasing. When the squall of depression rips you apart. When the doctors offer no hope. When your child strays. When the pressures boil. We lose heart, but we can pray.
Friend, if you feel helpless, you are not hopeless. These hearts are still human. Persist in prayer! Pray until peace envelops your soul. Pray until the winds are silenced. Pray until the waves stop churning. The Healer of hearts is on the scene, like He was that long-ago night. Can you hear Him whisper, “It’s gonna be OK.”?
Jesus, Jesus, sometimes all I can do is say Your precious name. At this moment, I don’t feel strong. I don’t feel at peace. I don’t even feel Your presence, but I know You are here. I won’t stop praying until You manifest Yourself to me. I need Your grace to see me through this storm. So I will be still and listen… Amen.
DIG DEEPER
When we lose heart, we need some reminders. Here are some well-known promises from God:
- 1 Corinthians 10:13
- 2 Corinthians 12:9
- Philippians 4:6-7, 19
- 1 Peter 5:7
HIKING THE TRAIL
Never believe you have failed as a Jesus girl or a godly man because you experience momentary weakness. You are human, and it is normal. In the end, you will be stronger for it.
Copyright 2016 Carolyn Dale Newell.
A Mountain of Faith 