When Easy Doesn’t Live Here: Living by Faith When Life Is Hard a 7 - Day Plan By: Joy A. WilliamsSample

DAY 3: THE PRAYERS OF A HEAVY HEART

Several years ago, my mother passed away unexpectedly. It was hard to live under the crushing weight of my grief. But we are not meant to bear the weight of life's burdens alone. When life feels overwhelming, where we look for relief is just as important as the reason why we need it.

If I'm frozen in fear or in a flurry of pride, it's hard to grasp the power of depending on God. (Psalm 131:1-3) Yet, in His Presence, we can rest. By His grace, we can grow by acknowledging our pain, seeking His help, and exercising our faith. Whether we are adapting to change or wanting everything around us to change, transitions are tough.

But prayer is a divine lifeline. Every word we utter or tear we shed is an expression of our heart to God. We're told to come boldly to His throne no matter how difficult life is or no matter what caused the difficulty. (Hebrews 4:16)

Through attending a grief support group, I learned how the prayers of a heavy heart could become the release of a burdened soul. Every ounce of our overwhelm is welcomed, and God's immeasurable peace is offered. (Philippians 4:6-8) Even when simplicity and familiarity have left the room of our lives, God never will. His help is here. Hold on. With Him, more help is on the way.

PRAYER: Lord, thank You for the power of prayer. Thank You for always welcoming me into Your Presence to receive Your mercy and grace. I release the burden of ______________ to You. Thank You for providing every bit of comfort, peace, and deliverance I need. In Jesus' name, amen.