Write a
Psalm
by Tom Gilbert
Lately I've hit a rough
patch. It's not like I've turned my back
on my faith in God. I still
believe. And I'm still doing the things
each day that are vital to spiritual growth.
But, I'm in fear and
concern. Why? Because it is one of those times. We all get
them. Life is sometimes smooth. Often it's rough. Those rough spots usually involve fear or
worry over finances or relationships.
What do you do when you are
in this painful place? If you want to wail and cry
out to God, if you are frustrated and your heart is heavy. Maybe this is
good.
You are correct. Being a crybaby isn't the response of
spiritually mature people. That's not
what I'm suggesting. What I am saying is
that you need to let God know when you are feeling lost and afraid and hurt. Crying out to Him in this way is admitting
that you can't do it alone, that you need help.
That is always the first step in getting help.
There is great precedence
for this. Read some of the Psalms. Many of them are joyful shouts of
praise. Some of them, though, are
downright pleas for help!
I am worn out from
groaning; all night long I flood my bed with weeping and drench my couch with
tears.
My eyes grow weak with
sorrow; they fail because of all my foes.
Psalm 6:6-7 (NIV).
Even earlier, in verse 3:
My soul is in anguish.
How long, O LORD , how long?
As a writer you are going to
face many times of feeling lost, frustrated or blocked. When the next time inevitably comes try
writing a psalm of your own. Put down
all your heartfelt yearning, your fears and your cries for help. God loves us, and rejoices when we admit we
need help.
After you get it all out,
and your cry for help is recorded try adding a postscript. Put in some praise and gratitude. Do this in the positive faith that despite
your current pain and despair you know your hope is not in vain.