“… we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character” Romans 5:3b-4.
Recently I was asked to lead a prayer meeting arranged by the local farmers to pray very specifically for the still desperately needed rain in our area. We are experiencing one of the longest dry spells in recorded history and a long and hard winter lies ahead of us. As I looked out over the crowd that had gathered to pray to God, I could not help wondering whether perhaps, in our coming together from various Christian denominations, an even greater miracle was taking place. It was a genuine show of unity in prayer. Then there are the reports of the retrenchments from a local mine accompanied by equally uncertain prospects for the future job situation in our area. There also seem to be so many people suffering sickness and disease, not to mention the poverty and desperation of so many more.
These realities have heightened the stress levels of many and there is lots of talk and speculation going on in people’s homes, in the work place and at the various places of recreation where one is supposed to rest and unwind. A deep and growing sense of pessimism and gloom seems to be spreading amongst us.
It is not a matter of denying the hard facts but please allow me to speak a word of faith and hope into every life and situation. God our Father knows all things, can do all things and He is still in control. Now is the time to put one’s house in order and to trust in God alone. “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” (Matthew 6:33)
Let us remember those who have come and gone before us, facing similar and sometimes worse situations and yet, through faith, determination and hard work, prevailed and came out of it all the stronger in the end – “as an example of patience in the face of suffering, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord.” (James 5:10)
One of the most important things to do right now is to surround yourself with people of faith and vision and to avoid negative talk and those who would make you feel worse about the situation. Go to church to worship with God-loving people and to seek that personal word of comfort and assurance. “Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another – and all the more as we see the Day of the Lord approaching.” (Hebrews 10:25)
Humble yourself and ask for advice, get some counsel and if necessary, ask your doctor to prescribe something to alleviate your stress levels. Various meds are quite safe and they do help.
I was surprised at the show of hands when I asked the people at the prayer meeting for rain how many have ‘felt It strange’ or that it was ‘perhaps even wrong’ to keep asking God for the same thing over and over again. Next time I hope to answer this question in particular.
A PRAYER: Father God, help us all to surround ourselves with people who will build us up in faith, to ask for any advice or help we need but above all, to listen to your voice at this time. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.