WHEN DESPERATION STRIKES

From: Ron Hawks

“God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble…Psalm 46:1.”

What do you do and where do you turn when you feel desperate? You are desperate when you feel hopeless, when you feel like you are in an impossible situation that is too much to deal with emotionally, physically or spiritually.

Desperation is a human emotion … it’s going to happen. Unfortunately, it often functions as a logic suppressant. It makes us stupid. And, stupidity acts impulsively. We must be careful when we are desperate, or things could go south very quickly. These feelings can lead us to panic and to become isolated – a bad combination. Decisions made in isolation and acted upon rashly, rarely turn out well.

We need not, however, follow the desperation tracks all the way to the station of utter despair. Instead, we can allow it to take us to deep places in our relationship with God. Some have even said only desperate people grow spiritually and are transformed. It’s when we come to the end of ourselves and the resources at our disposal that we call out to God as God. And, it’s only when we see God as God that we receive Him as He is and obey His leading as Lord.

Here are a few things that can be helpful to remember when we feel desperate:

1. God has not left you; He is present within us amidst the trial. (Hebrews 13:5)

2. To greatly need God’s wisdom, direction and/or intervention is not a bad thing – there is no need to be ashamed.

3. Take time to honestly consider your situation and feelings, don’t run from them.

4. Pour out your heart to God. Express your real self – don’t be afraid. Such expressions to God – even when they are peppered with anger – are a sincere form of worship, declaring that He exists, sees and hears the cry of the needy. (Genesis 16:13; Psalm 62:8; Hebrews 4:6)

5. Don’t stay isolated. Get with others you respect in faith to share and pray. (James 5:16)

6. Look for and receive the counsel of the wise around you. (Proverbs 15:22)

When feelings of Desperation fall upon your soul, speak God’s presence into yourself. Prophesy to your soul that “God is with you – there is no need to cling to fear.” Receive the presence of the Lord amidst your feelings and trial. His presence is a greater reward than deliverance. Treasure Him amidst the storm – and you will be transformed from the inside out.

Learning to Cry Out to My God when I am at the end with you,

Pastor Tom