Strength In the Darkness of the Soul

Are there times in your life when you feel completely worn out in body and soul? When you try to remember promises, but your memory just can’t grasp them? When your soul feels so parched, you can’t survive without a drink?

I was lying in the hospital with pneumonia. I felt so sick and weak and my brain would not function. I didn’t have the energy to read. I tried to remember one of God’s promises, but my brain didn’t cooperate. My soul was dry. I couldn’t live on without any Living Water.

Oh God, I feel so sick. May I just die? I can’t read. I can’t remember. I can’t go on this way. Please, please, please let me know You are here…

I closed my eyes and saw beneath my eyelids a silhouette of Jesus, black with a red background. How can this be possible? I opened and closed my eyes again. It was still there. That glorious image. God, is this really from You? 

Then His words seeped into my soul:

“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” (Isaiah 41:10)

It was so hard to think though… Really, God? Are You with me? Are You really holding my hand?

And He repeated it several times over.

Like healing balm seeping into my soul.

Ah, I didn’t have to think.

He was thinking for me.

Thank You, God.

As my soul rested in His hands, I fell asleep.

Beautiful soul rest.

God Is Always Here

Oh My precious child

I hear you from the deepest, darkest pit.

Don’t be afraid.

Don’t be disheartened.

I am here, My child, even in the dark.

I am always here.

I will help you.

I will give you strength.

I will lift you up again.

I will uphold you

With my victorious right hand.

Fear not, My child.

Fear not.

My love never dies.

Dear Jesus, You know the hearts of each and every one of us. You know every situation. Right now, in this very moment. Nothing is hidden from You. Whoever is in soul distress, please show them You are always with them. Whisper Your words of love into their hearts. Apply Your healing balm into their souls. Give them to feel Your victorious right hand holding theirs. In Your Name, Amen!