Unglued is exactly how I felt recently when my morning, which started as usual in prayer and devotion, somehow turned into a chaotic ugly mess. It wasn’t any one big catastrophe but a series of blow-ups (aka family conflict) and puppy mishaps that completely took away my joy and peace. I wanted to pray, but I was too angry to talk to God. I tried to read scripture, but my heart found no meaning or comfort in the words. I thought about journaling, but my mind wouldn’t focus. I tried deep breathing, but my body paced and I ranted until tears exploded.
It was unsettling to learn how quickly I could transform from a person devoted to encouraging others to lean into their faith, to a doubter who had lost all hope of a better day. Even after all the prayers God has personally answered for my family, I doubted. Even after all the tough storms my faith has helped me navigate through, I doubted. Immediately I became vulnerable to the self defeating lies we often tell ourselves when we’re in a low spot. I started doubting my worth, my faith and my ability to encourage others. I criticized myself for losing control of my emotions and for daring to speak hope to others when I myself felt hopeless. How do you find encouragement when you feel beaten down?
We can find hope in 1 Thessalonians 5:11
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up...”
Life Application~
In my vulnerable state, God intervened. At just the right moment, a close Christian friend called to check in. As my waterworks flowed, she listened without judgment and spoke only words of truth and encouragement. My friend offered prayer and suggested I seek out support from a group of ladies who had gone through similar challenges within their families. Once I gathered the courage to do so, I was amazed by the peace I felt as these ladies created a space for me to share my vulnerabilities. My situation didn’t change, but my outlook improved. The encouragement I received, both from my friend and the group of supportive ladies, helped build me up to a place I couldn’t get to alone. If you’re feeling vulnerable today, I encourage you to reach out for support to someone you trust within your Christian community.
Prayer~
Heavenly Father, thank you for putting people in my life to encourage and build me up when I am in a low place. Use my vulnerabilities to help and encourage others. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
By: Angel Slawinski
