How often lately have you had a heavy heart?  Many I am talking with seem to be fighting that emotion.  I realized that I have had that heavy heart, contributed to by the changing of the season.  I experience Seasonal Affect Disorder (SAD) about this time of year, as the days get shorter – carb cravings and weepiness.  Add the pandemic, unrest in the streets, politics and unemployment. What heaviness are you carrying in your heart?

However, going to scripture can give each of us hope for a heavy heart.  Listen to what David writes as he cries out to God after his enemy has knocked him to the ground in  Psalm 143:8-10.  Read it several times to see what words stand out to you personally.

Let me hear of your unfailing love each morning,
for I am trusting you.
Show me where to walk,
for I give myself to you.
Rescue me from my enemies, Lord;
I run to you to hide me.
Teach me to do your will,
for you are my God.
May your gracious Spirit lead me forward
on a firm footing.
For the glory of your name, O Lord, preserve my life.
Because of your faithfulness, bring me out of this distress. 

What stood out to you as you read this psalm?  In Lectio Divina fashion, let’s see what hope God may give.

First reading – What words stand out to you or shimmer?

As you read the verses the first time, what words or phrases stood out to you?  Often, words may leap off the page.  Scripture is God’s way of speaking to us.  What is He saying to you today?

For me, the words that shimmer today are unfailing love each morning.  I am grateful I can count on God’s unfailing love each morning.  I need to go back to Him every morning, reminding myself of His love for me.  Then I can face the day, with hope, for whatever the day may bring.

Second reading – What do you do to engage with God for hope?

In this particular passage, as David writes, notice several things to do to lift our hearts. We can:

• hear of His love
• trust in Him
• give ourselves to Him
• run to Him
• ask Him to hide us
• ask Him to teach us
• ask Him to lead us forward on a firm footing

In compiling this list of things to engage with God, a vision or picture may form.  What picture is forming for you as you read this list?

Third reading -What does God say He will do for hope?

God also plays an active part to lift our spirits. We know He will

• rescue
• teach
• be gracious
• lead
• preserve our lives
• be faithful
• lead us out of our distress

What stands out to you to give you hope?

In these short verses from Psalm 143, what gives you hope?  What is one thing, just for today that you will focus upon?

For everything going on in your world right now, one day at a time is what you and I have. For me, I want to notice His presence and give myself to Him each day.  I am grateful I can find hope in His word each day.

May you find the hope you need for your heavy heart.  I am praying for you and with you.  Reply and let me know any specifics that I might lift up for you.  I want to pray for you and your family members.

Blessings,

Nancy