“Regaining Control”
Take a deep breath – count to ten – lay down – stand up – rest – sleep – take a walk – contact somebody. These are a few words often mentioned to an individual going through a crisis, or at the very least, a difficult time. How many times has someone used these words or similar ones in an attempt to encourage you during times of trial?
What do you do to help someone that’s under pressure? They’re worried and maybe afraid because as they try to navigate the storm that’s tossing them about, the outcome of the present situation is out of their hands. Offering comforting words to someone that’s hurting can be very helpful. Sitting with them reminds them that someone cares and that’s why you are there. I’ve learned being with someone during a tragic time, doesn’t mean you have to talk. Just be there and let your presence speak for you. I call this, “The ministry of silence.”
Early this morning I was watering the lawn in our backyard just as light began to break the night darkness. A number of people who are fighting turbulent waters crossed my mind. Chris and I pray for these people on a regular basis and as I was setting the sprinkler I was asking God, what can I say that will help these individuals.
Almost instantly a song called, “There’s Something About That Name,” came to mind. I haven’t heard that song in years but began to softly sing the words … “Je-sus, Je-sus, Je-sus! There’s just some-thing a-bout that name! Mas-ter, Sav-ior, Je-sus! Like the fra-grance af-ter the rain. Je-sus, Je-sus, Je-sus! Let all heav-en and earth pro-claim: Kings and king-doms will all pass a-way, But there’s SOME-THING ABOUT THAT NAME!”
In closing, here are positive words of another song, “There is STRENGTH in the name of the Lord. There is POW’R in the name of the Lord. There is HOPE in the name of the Lord. BLESSED is he, who comes in the name of the Lord!” Your pain is obvious, but you aren’t hurting alone. God is with you. Let the loving words and arms of Jesus give you comfort during stressful times. Take a break from the situation, and “TURN YOUR EYES UPON JESUS!” Focusing upon – JESUS – will help you find rest, peace, and to regain control to deal with the problem.
Pastor Carnes
