October 16, 2019
I didn’t know it would be this hard
I didn’t think I could fall so far
But here I am
How did I stray so far off course
How can I get back to the shore
Lord here I am
And the waves are crashing all around
I need you God and I need you now
Rescue me
I can feel the water rising
Rescue me Jesus
Lord I’m in so deep and I feel
Powerless to save myself
Only you can be the help I need
Rescue me
The words of this song, Rescue Me, by Jay Stocker, touch my soul. Have you ever felt like you’re in over your head? I have! One of the worst times was after I was divorced and became a single mother. I felt the water rising and getting deep. During that time, our faithful God sent people to give me His messages. My parents and siblings were supportive and reminded me that God would take care of my children and me. Friends and fellow church members sent me encouraging notes and gave lots of TLC during this period of adjustment. One of my co-workers named Sharon was especially helpful because she had been divorced with two young daughters as well. Sharon didn’t judge or give advice; she simply listened!
Over the years, God has placed people in my path who were experiencing divorce. When asked, I suggest that people read the Psalms, which express every emotion. God’s Word can be a true source of comfort and encouragement when we’re facing life’s storms. Mostly, I’ve tried to be a good listener and provide a shoulder to cry on.
How about you? What kinds of trials have you faced? Do you know what it’s like to lose a loved one, to experience a failed marriage, to have a debilitating illness, to have a loved one incarcerated, to be jobless, or to care for someone who is terminally ill? God never promised that we’d have calm seas, but He has promised to never leave us. One way we experience His love is through the words and actions of others – those who reach out to us in the middle of the storm. Who do you know who’s fighting the waves? Who do you know who needs to be reminded that God is with them? Reach out today!
“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you or forsake you.” (Deuteronomy 31:6)
Susan Easttom, Director of Family Ministry
