Free From a Tormented MindSample

In conclusion, feelings do matter and are important, but they do not define our reality.

Do not let negative feelings dominate you. Instead, draw near to God and trust Him. That’s what Job did, and we should do the same.

Let me offer you a recommendation at this point. In moments of pain, people often seek out those who will validate their misguided feelings. Instead, seek out counselors who will show you the reality behind those feelings—counselors who will urge you to see what your natural eyes cannot.

Secondly, trust, especially when the pain persists. Fill yourself with faith if the crisis endures and salvation does not come quickly. Even the most spiritual people frequently fail at this point. That’s what happened to Job. In a moment of weakness, he said, "God hates me and tears me apart in His anger…” Job 16:9 (NLT). But it wasn’t true that God hated him. The true reality was that God was proud of Job. Fortunately, Job refocused on seeing the reality that only his spiritual eyes could see. Soon, the natural vision dominated by feelings of pain gave way to a vision of faith dominated by hope.

God may not free us from all experiences of suffering, but the book of Job teaches us that God is not indifferent to our pain. And He is not silent either. God does hear our prayers and does respond to them.

Moreover, He sympathizes with our needs, as it says in Hebrews 4:15. What is needed is to rekindle our hope. Hope challenges what is seen. The outlook may seem grim; we may feel that all is lost, but if we have Christ, we challenge the visible.

Are you going through an incredibly painful situation? You need to believe in God's sovereignty and trust that He allowed it for your own good. No matter what situation you are in—whether in health or in pain, in happiness or in suffering, in wealth or in poverty, in certainty or in confusion—hide yourself in Christ, and you will always be in God.

Pray your own prayer: "Lord, I do not know what You are doing, and I do not know the details of what You are providentially orchestrating in this volcano of suffering I am in, but I trust in You, waiting for the day of my deliverance. Help me not to believe that what I feel is reality. I believe in a better future. I believe in a life with purpose, and I believe that my life and service will build your church, extend your kingdom, and glorify your name."