In high school I kept a “visual journal” full of pictures (that I often drew during down time in class). The pics illustrated my emotions that day. When I got home, I would put them in a binder and write something to explain them. And the more I wrote—analyzing my troubles—the more I felt compelled to “get it together” and find a Biblical answer. Why? Because I was so spiritual? No, because I had put my complaints in writing, and if anyone ever read them, I wanted them to know I had found an answer. I did not want a written record of whining without a solution. So I always found a spiritual answer. This led to a lot of spiritual growth.
King David does the same thing: he begins many of his psalms with complaints and tears, but ends by reminding himself of his faith—of His amazing God Who is the answer. Look at Psalm 6:
“I am weak. Heal me Lord, for my bones are shaking, I shake with terror. Rescue me, before I die! Because I can’t praise you from the grave! I am weary from my groaning; with tears I soak my pillow and drench my bed every night, my eyes are swollen from crying, they grow old because of all my enemies.”
And then suddenly, David remembers God and his attitude changes:
“Depart from me, evildoers, for the Lord has heard my weeping! The Lord has heard my plea and accepts my prayer. All my enemies will be ashamed. THEY will shake with terror! They will turn back and suddenly be disgraced.” Psalm 6 (edited).
“SELF-TALK” refers to the things you tell yourself, advice you give yourself. Make it positive! Tell yourself to cheer up, to have courage, and to TRUST GOD. Consider WRITING your self-talk in a journal, because the act of writing will make you more hopeful, more full of faith. And no matter how severe your problems, do like David and CHOOSE FAITH. Choose to believe and trust God. IT IS A CHOICE.
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Household Words: 