When you're distraught and in pain
Aug 03, 2023 9:01 am
You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast because they trust in you. / Isaiah 26:3 (NIV)
Life is full of ups and downs, and sometimes it feels like we're sailing through rough waters. But, you know what? Even in the midst of the storms, we can say, "It Is Well with My Soul."
When Horatio Spafford penned these words, he had experienced tremendous loss and heartache. He lost a son to sickness, and four daughters in a tragic accident. And that was after his business faced ruin. Yet, in the face of such adversity, he found solace in knowing that his soul could rest in God's embrace.
What a powerful message for us today!
All of us are facing something tough like a job loss, debt accumulation, bankruptcy, running out of money before running out of month, a serious illness, disability, loss of a loved one, chronic pain, divorce or breakup, betrayal, a toxic relationship, identity theft, and that's just the tip of the iceberg!
The lyrics of It is Well remind us that no matter what we go through, we can find peace in our soul. It's not about pretending everything is perfect; it's about acknowledging our struggles and handing them over to the One who can calm the storm within us. When we put our trust in God, our souls can be anchored in His unfailing love.
When peace, like a river, attendeth my way,
When sorrows like sea billows roll;
Whatever my lot, Thou hast taught me to say,
It is well, it is well with my soul
Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come,
Let this blest assurance control,
That Christ hath regarded my helpless estate,
And hath shed His own blood for my soul.
And Lord, haste the day when the faith shall be sight,
The clouds be rolled back as a scroll;
The trump shall resound, and the Lord shall descend,
Even so, it is well with my soul.
It is well with my soul,
It is well, it is well with my soul.
Prayer
Lord, when the waves of life toss us around, help us to remember that it can still be well with our souls. You are our rock and refuge, and in you, we find peace. We surrender our worries, our fears, and our doubts, knowing that you hold us in the palm of your hand. Grant us the strength to face each day with confidence, knowing that you are with us, guiding us through every storm.
Reflection Questions
1. Think of a time when you felt like everything was falling apart, yet you found peace in knowing God was with you. What did you do to sense God's peace?
2. How can you cultivate a sense of peace in the midst of life's challenges?
3. What practical steps can you take to trust God more and worry less?
Hymn: It Is Well
Watch Sunday's Message:
Hymns for Spiritual Formation: It is Well
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