Psalm 61

Remember the old chant, 

“Stick and stones may break my bones

But words can never hurt me?”

How I wish that were true! However, the words of others have pierced my heart and deeply wounded me.  Yet the words I have spoken over myself have been even more damaging, for I have bled from these wounds and never realized that my soul was hemorrhaging from my self-inflicted hurt. 

People have told me that they sense serenity, calmness, and a sense of peace when I minister.  I praise God for this, for this peace is a prize given to me by a loving Father after much combat.

Those called of God must be overcomers.  They must overcome the temptations of the world.  They must overcome the spiritual  [and sometimes physical attacks] that come from the demonic realm, but most of all they must overcome themselves.

It is so wonderful to have God speak to us.  True, to stand in the presence of the Lord can be terrifying, but it is to stand in the midst of the source of all life, light, hope, and grace quenches the deepest thirst of our souls. If only we could exist in that special presence always!  Someday, we shall; but for now, we are called to take God’s Word and message to others.  We have to exist in this world and walk by faith, even when we do not feel or see God’s manifest presence.  We must carry the light into areas of darkness where light has not shown before.

To be God's messenger, to give His prophetic word to others is an honor, a privilege, and a great responsibility. To prophecy effectively means we--I--must endure facing the darkness and overcome the weakness that accompanies our humanity.  My old nature, what the Apostle Paul calls “our flesh nature” does not want to walk in the light or carry the light to others.  The flesh calls upon fear, doubt, and the memories of my past failings to tempt me to run from my assigned task and wallop in apathy and forgetfulness.

Sometimes I have to tell myself to shut up!  Do you?

How I love Psalm 61 during those times of trouble and struggle! I won’t quote it all, but look at the first part:

Hear my cry, O God,

Listen to my prayer; from the end of the earth I call to you

When my heart is faint.

Lead me to the rock that is higher than I,

For you have been my refuge, a strong tower from the enemy.

I have learned that God is with me through unexpected upheaval and changes.  I can assure you that God will supply all your needs; He will guide, direct, and equip you as He has equipped [and is equipping] me.  We can overcome—even ourselves—and be champions through the power of the Holy Spirit.  There is much darkness; let’s carry the light!

If you are struggling today and need someone to pray for you, let me know.  My email is [email protected].