Have you ever heard someone say, “God won’t give you more than you can handle?”
Sounded logical to me.
That was before a shocking late night call in 1999 changed everything. My healthy, Gerber daisy loving, life-of-the-party, newlywed mom was gone. And the crushing season of grief that followed was astronomically more than I could handle.
Maybe you’re there right now- grieving the loss of a loved one, a cherished relationship, or a dream. If so, you understand the “more than you can handle” quote is a million miles from the truth. God never promises not to put more on us than we can handle; but He does promise that He will walk with us no matter what.
“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified… for the Lord your God goes with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you.” Deuteronomy 31:6
Here are three things that helped me, not only make it through the darkest days of my life~ but also find joy on the other side of deep sorrow.
* Let somebody love you. Saying yes to offers of support and companionship will strengthen you and remind you that you are not alone.
* Let somebody pray for you- that God would heal your heart.This is the prayer close friends prayed for me during a particularly tough day. The morning after this prayer, I felt as though a refreshing rain had washed over my soul.
* Trust that brighter days, restored joy and maybe even new purpose will be revealed through this pain.
If you’re feeling isolated in your pain today, I encourage you to call somebody- a friend, pastor, counselor or family member. The Open to Hope site is a comforting place to find resources and support from people who have loved, lost and have found joy-fill life again.
Lord, please hold your son/ daughter so closely that Your presence would be unmistakable. Send close friends and family to be Your hands and feet through this season. Thank You for Your promise that You are close to the brokenhearted; and that You will rescue those who are crushed in spirit. In Your mighty name I pray, Amen.