the whisper

“Turn to me and be gracious to me, for I am lonely and afflicted.”1

you gasp when you read it—how can a verse so accurately capture your mood?

the dam bursts and out flows sobs of despair and a steady stream of tears.

you are never more alone than at that moment, not after what’s just happened.

the verse is quickly memorized in order to call upon again and again and again.

aware of the day’s responsibilities you steady your legs and rise to your feet,

and decide to get some fresh air in hopes you will be able to face the day.

but the moment the cold wind hits your face the tears flow all over again,

and your anger bubbles over like a volcano with creator god as the target.

you choke on the verse, “i love you, oh lord my strength,”2  

for your heart won’t allow the words to be uttered, at least sincerely.

screams of “now what?!” and “how do you expect me to go on?!” roll off the tongue,

giving little or no thought to who—other than the Lord—may be in ear shot.

and then it happens, just as your rage reaches its climax,  

someone whispers in your ear, “my grace is sufficient for you.”3.

the tears and anger quickly subside because you know the source of the message,

for there is no one else around and the words did not come from your own spirit.

how long you will enjoy the grace of god no one really knows,

for you are hurting, vulnerable and human to the core.

so more pain and tears are likely to come during moments of weakness,

but for now, for now, his grace is, indeed, sufficient for you.

1  Psalm 25:16

2  Psalm 18:1

3  2 Corinthians 12:9

Editor’s note:

For all those who have a broken heart. For all those who have nothing to look forward to. For all those who are burdened and unable to go on.

Know that you are in my thoughts and prayers, my friend. Also know that not all is lost. It never is when the Lord’s involved.

“My grace is sufficient for you.”