In Trying Times

In the book of Micah, the prophet describes the sad state of affairs in the world around him. The faithful are nowhere to be found. Injustice and corruption reign. Families are falling apart at the seams.

Despite all this, in verse 7 he says:
“As for me, I will look to the Lord, I will wait for the God of my salvation; my God will hear me.”

So often, we find ourselves surrounded by darkness. We see hungry children in our communities. We hear about violence and injustice. We worry about our jobs, our parents, or our friends.

In his own life, the prophet Micah didn’t ignore the issues or pretend they weren’t real. No—he named them. He lamented. And then he held fast to hope.

In a Wednesday night study, our small group was encouraged to share with God in prayer exactly what was on our hearts. We were given the instructions to be real, to be vulnerable. It is true that God already knows what we’re facing. God already knows what we’re going through. However, something powerful happens to us when we are able to speak our lament, to name our prayer, to open our hearts.

In the New Testament, James reminds us:
“Draw near to the Lord, and he will draw near to you.”

Let us pray: God of grace, we all know the feelings of anxiety and stress. Often we feel the pain of the world around us. It is part of our shared humanity. I pray today especially for those who need you near. Give each of us the courage to face—and even to name—our fears. In spite of the darkness, help us to trust you. We ask in Jesus’ name. Amen.