Begin with two minutes of silence and stillness before God.

He hears you. You are not forgotten…BUT sometimes doesn't it just feel like you are screaming at the top of your lungs and nothing is coming out. Do you ever get that feeling and think, "seriously, again?" OR, do you know someone who just keeps getting dirt kicked in their eyes? Job loss, car accident, illness, divorce, death. Life is hard. It's hard to see people hurt, anxious, and worried, and it is awful to be the one feeling it. 

What is the usual response of condolence when someone is feeling the burdens of life? Yep, you got it. "I am praying for you." I have seen so many articles talking about things you can say that are better than, "I am praying for you." I just don't know if there is anything better to say or do. Why, you ask? Well, because HE HEARS US! I will prove it. Because the Bible tells me so! 

Psalm 34:17: "The righteous cry out, and the Lord HEARS them; He DELIVERS them from all their troubles."

And there is more where that came from! My point is, we all face adversity and know others who are in a rocky boat, too, or are dealing with devastation. Where do we start? Prayer. 

Psalm 118:5-9: "When hard pressed, I cried to the Lord; He brought me into a spacious place. The Lord is with me; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me? The Lord is with me; he is my helper. I look in triumph on my enemies. It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in humans. It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in princes." 

Pray and TRUST that He knows what is best for you and your purpose. 

Now, of course, your work does not stop there. There is always a call to action to help and serve others in their time of need. I really think the point of the articles I mentioned should refocus the content, not about what you should say instead of…but what you should say and/or do after you tell them you are praying. For example: "I am praying for you. Can I bring your family dinner?" 

A lot of us are really great at filling in empty spaces and carrying burdens when people are down and need some extra love. I have seen it, and it is a beautiful thing! 

If it is you who needs the extra prayer and love…you've got a church full of people who love you and will be gracious to you in your time of need. 

Psalm 118:26 "Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord." 

Take two minutes to reflect in silence.

Reflection:

Use the S.O.A.P. Method to study God's Word.

• SCRIPTURE: What stands out to you in today's passage?
• OBSERVATION: What is this text saying? What is the context? How does it fit with the verses before and after it? Are there any commands, instructions, or promises?
• APPLICATION: How can you apply this verse to your life? What does this mean today? What is God saying to you?
• PRAYER: Respond to the passage in prayer. Ask God to help you apply this truth to your life and spend some time listening to what He may be telling you.