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Military Ministry

#2 - In Distress

David said to Gad, “I am in deep distress.
Let me fall into the hands of the Lord, for his mercy is very great.”

1 Chronicles 21:13

Just as David of the Old Testament cried out to the Lord, I can also express my heart’s cry to Him too. During suffering there will be times of deep distress. Not able to explain it, it is certainly felt. Heaviness pervades the situation with no immediate end in sight. It is shocking to think that it may be here to stay, even for a long period of time.

I sadly take my plight to God just as David did in this passage. “Let me fall into the hands of the Lord.” His mercy is great; his love endures, even in the suffering and affliction of this time. The journey is beyond my knowledge and control, but not of God’s. He knows what I am dealing with in my life. In his hands, He will give comfort as He gently cradles me. His hands are here to protect, shield and keep me from succumbing to the distress that circumstances bring into my earthly life.

Prayer

Lord, today I acknowledge my distress to you. In your mercy, please help me to find comfort beyond this situation. I lift up my hands to you, as a helpless child reaching for my loving Father. Take hold of me as I ask for your hand of protection upon my life today. Give me your mercy in my time of affliction. Amen.

When early days show signs of continued distress, a heavy heart brings a sense of hopelessness. Out of the combat zone “over there”, a new combat zone is beginning in the heart and soul of our military families.

A new journey within is revealing a forest whose foot path is dark from the looming forest trees overhead and a thicket of the unknown stretches out before each step. This path is a crooked journey evoking such distress that even the Soldier, David, knew it was beyond him.

Pray for our Military and Their Families

  1. Pray for understanding between Soldier and family members. It is difficult for each member to be able to connect in their relationships when distress is present in the home.
  2. Pray for patience to love each other even when changes have made it difficult to connect peacefully within the family unit.
  3. Pray that the families will speak out about their distress to those who can find the help they need to get started on a path to recovery.

Lorrie Pies, Military Spouse © 2007