light at the end of the tunnel

Will relief ever come?

Have you ever wondered, in the midst of your pain and suffering, whether things will ever get better? You know what I’m talking about: When the future looks just as bleak—if not more so—than the present.

What happens when there’s no light at the end of the tunnel, and gloom and doom haunt your thoughts day and night?

What do you do?

Let’s start with the obvious: Something needs to change, and change quickly. What you’re going through can’t continue. You need help. 

Duh, right? Except the obvious needs to be stated. Now let’s get specific.

First and foremost, you need to bring your problem(s) before the Lord. Tragically, many people either pooh-pooh the importance of prayer or neglect it altogether. For instance, in the case of a physical illness, our knee-jerk reaction may be to get on the phone with a specialist instead of getting on our knees.

While there’s a time and a place for earthly resources, I suggest instead you start with a phone call to your heavenly Father. Seeking out help from others is important, but I urge you not to overlook the only divine resource available.

If you want to know how to pray and what to say, just read through a handful of Psalms written by King David and you’ll see how it’s done. He was flawed and troubled just like us, but had an ace in his pocket: the Creator of the universe.

“The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge. He is my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.”1

This attitude of dependence is critical in your recovery. The Lord God must be your most important asset, bar none. He’s more important than your doctor, therapist and pastor put together. After all, He has resources no one else on this planet has.

And when you talk to the Lord about what’s going on, for heaven’s sake don’t hold back. Even a cursory reading of the Psalms shows us that David never held back. Ever. Always be respectful, but if you’re hurting, tell Him. If you’re angry, tell Him. And if you’re fed up, tell Him.

Whatever’s on your mind, share it with your heavenly Father. He’s the epitome of the perfect parent, ready and willing to help His children. In this case, His spiritual children.

Is it important to seek out the prayers, support and help from family, friends and others? Of course it is. But I urge you not to overlook the only divine resource available.

When the future looks just as bleak—if not more so—than the present, you need the help of King David’s God. Your God.

“Cast your cares on the LORD and he will sustain you.”2

1   Psalm 18:2

2  Psalm 55:22